Former Senate Leader, Mohammed Ali Ndume, has called for urgent federal intervention following a devastating flood in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
He expressed concern over the extent of damage caused by the disaster, which he said is beyond the state government’s capacity to manage alone.
In a statement released to the press in Abuja, Ndume, who represents the Borno South Senatorial District, urged the Federal Government, development partners, and relevant agencies to immediately mobilize resources to assist the affected residents.
He stressed that the situation required a collective effort to prevent further loss of lives and property.
“The Borno State government has been doing its best, evacuating residents and providing necessary relief, but the scale of this disaster is overwhelming,” Ndume said.
“The Federal Government must step in without delay to prevent the situation from worsening.”
Ndume also highlighted the impact on local institutions, revealing that the University of Maiduguri has been forced to shut down indefinitely.
The university’s management, in a statement by Registrar Ahmad A. Lawan, expressed sympathy for affected staff and students, citing the need for safety amid the flood.
“This is a serious disaster,” Ndume lamented. “Homes, businesses, government agencies, and institutions have been submerged. Many people are trapped, and it is crucial for immediate action to be taken.”
The flood, which has submerged large parts of Maiduguri, was triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam after days of heavy rainfall. The Borno State government has advised residents living near riverbanks to evacuate to safer areas.