Residents of Maiduguri are experiencing heightened anxiety as River Yedzaram has overflowed its banks, exacerbating the flood crisis in the area. The situation is further complicated by the imminent release of excess water from the Alau Dam, which is currently at full capacity.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the overflow has already caused significant damage, submerging buildings and farmlands in Gwange Ward. Additionally, Ngaddabul Stream has also led to flooding in Maduganari Ward, affecting more homes and agricultural land.
Mustapha Ali, a Gwange resident, expressed concern: “We are in distress and afraid that more rainfall or the release of excess water from the dam could worsen the situation. Areas such as the customs area, College of Agriculture, and 505 Estates are already facing severe flooding from the rivers.”
In Bulabulin Ward, Abubakar Ibrahim reported that residents have begun evacuating due to the expanding floodwaters: “The flooding from the river is spreading in Bulabulin, and people have started moving out.”
In response to the crisis, Alhaji Bukar Tijjani, Secretary to the Borno State Government, led an assessment team to the Alau Dam on Thursday. Tijjani assured the public that the state government is collaborating with the Chad Basin Development Authority, which manages the dam, to implement safety measures and address the situation.
The recent heavy rains have caused widespread flooding across Borno State, affecting several local government areas including Biu, Chibok, Konduga, Bama, Dikwa, and Jere. The state government continues to monitor the situation closely and is taking steps to mitigate the impact of the floods on affected communities.