Flooding in Maiduguri, the capital city of Borno State in Nigeria, has led to widespread chaos, including the escape of more than 200 inmates from a local prison and the release of wild animals from a zoo.
The flood, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, began last weekend and worsened on Monday, September 9. Thousands of residents have been displaced, with affected areas including the Government Residential Area and Millionaires Quarters.
The flood knocked down a portion of the Maiduguri New Prison’s wall, allowing more than 200 prisoners, including Boko Haram commanders, to escape. “Part of the wall of the Maiduguri New Prison collapsed, and some Boko Haram commanders… have escaped with other prisoners,” an unnamed prison official confirmed to Sahara Reporters.
Meanwhile, the flood also breached the Sanda Kyarimi Zoo, causing the death or escape of more than 80 percent of its animals. “Some deadly animals such as snakes and crocodiles have been washed away into the communities,” stated Ali Abatcha, General Manager of Borno State Museum Park. He warned residents to take precautions.
Meanwhile, authorities have evacuated residents and set up a relief camp to house those displaced by the flood. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to those in need.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
