Flood: Zulum blows hot during tours of damaged roads, bridges, others
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Thursday criticized those who built homes along riverbanks for obstructing the natural flow of water, worsening the impact of the recent flood that ravaged Maiduguri and its surrounding areas.
During an assessment tour of key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and hospitals, Zulum visited damaged sites like the Gwange Maternity Hospital, road networks, markets, and bridges in Gwange and Fori.
The tour revealed widespread destruction caused by the flood, which he attributed in large part to unauthorized constructions along waterways.
“The destruction is enormous,” Zulum said, lamenting that despite multiple warnings, residents continued to build in high-risk flood zones. “Over 70% of Maiduguri is now submerged because of these actions,” he added.
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Zulum ordered the Borno State Ministry of Works and Housing, the Borno State Information Geographic System, the flood committee, and security agencies to prevent further construction in waterways.
He also announced the formation of a committee to review illegal constructions and recommend actions to the Federal Government, including preventing rebuilds in these dangerous areas.
The September 10 flood, described as the worst in Maiduguri in over 30 years, has displaced many, damaged critical infrastructure, and disrupted the flow of essential goods.
