- Prisoners break lose, over 200 on the run
Massive flooding has submerged major roads, homes, and businesses across Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and parts of Jere Local Government Area, displacing thousands of residents.
Key public infrastructure affected by the flood includes the Shehu’s Palace, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Sanda Kyarimi Zoo. In a shocking turn, floodwaters also breached the walls of a prison near the Custom area, leading to the drowning of some inmates, while others reportedly escaped.
The flooding has paralyzed movement in the state capital, with major roads like the Post-Office Roundabout, which links key parts of Maiduguri, completely submerged. Other affected areas include Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, Cattle Market, Gwange, and Lagos Street.
One of the most affected facilities is the Sanda Kyarimi Zoo, where the zoo’s General Manager, Ali Abatcha, revealed that 80% of the animals were killed by the flood, while the remaining animals have escaped into the city.
Thousands of residents, particularly women and children living in flood-prone areas and along waterways, have been displaced, leaving many in urgent need of relief assistance.