Victims of the devastating September 10, 2024 flood in Maiduguri, Jere, and surrounding areas in Borno State are still grappling with the aftermath, 17 days on. The disaster has left many without homes, livelihoods, or basic necessities.
Residents who have returned to their communities describe the flood as the worst in 30 years, with entire neighborhoods submerged and homes destroyed. Many have been forced to seek shelter in open spaces, while others have returned to partially safe areas.
The situation is dire, with the risk of disease outbreaks looming large. Residents are defecating in the open due to destroyed latrines, and snakes have invaded homes, posing a deadly threat. In the Bayan and Chinese Quarters of Jere, seven snakes have been killed, and a woman was bitten.
The flood has ravaged 50,000 hectares of rice, millet, and vegetable farms in Zabarmari, threatening food security. Farmers like Musa Ali have lost everything, and Hon. Ahmed Satomi, who lost 2,000 hectares of rice farm, is calling for federal government intervention.
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has inaugurated a 35-member committee to disburse relief packages to victims. The committee has received over N7 billion in donations but warns that this is insufficient to address the needs of hundreds of thousands of victims.
Lawmakers and residents are urging the government, NGOs, and international organizations to provide support to affected communities. The situation demands immediate attention to prevent further suffering and ensure the well-being of those affected.
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