by Nurat Uthman
More than one million persons have been displaced by the devastating floods in Maiduguri, the state capital of Borno State.
This was confirmed on Wednesday by the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum.
While donating cash to displaced persons taking refuge in the Bakassi IDP camp along Biu, Damboa road in Maiduguri, Zulum said food items and other basic necessities will be provided, while vendors have been contracted to feed the displaced persons in the camp.
Prof Zulum also confirmed receipt of a flood intervention fund of ₦3bn from the Federal Government which will be used in addressing the challenges of the flood.
The governor revealed that as long-term measures, the government will constitute a health committee to look into possible outbreaks of diseases to curb the effects and spread of the diseases.
He said search and rescue have begun across affected communities to determine lives lost, while data collation of affected persons will be done immediately.
On the cause of the flood, the governor blames heavy terrestrial rainfall being experienced this year.
The governor said development has overtaken water channels across the state capital, thereby blocking water pathways.
He also blamed the flood on the overflow of Alo Dam which was caused by the release of water from other dams in Cameroon.
Prof Zulum said the Alo Dam will be reconstructed to contain more water volume, while structures erected on riverine and water proned areas will be demolished to avoid future recurrence.
