On Tuesday, severe flooding caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital led to a significant prison break at the city’s Custodial facility in the city.
The raging flooding has caused extensive damage to the prison facility. Rising waters have breached security barriers and weakened structural supports, allowing inmates to break free from their confinement
This has intensified concerns for public safety, particularly in a region already grappling with insurgency.
Authorities have described the situation as critical, confirming that the escaped prisoners may be armed and are considered dangerous.
A massive manhunt has been launched to recapture the escapees, with additional security forces deployed across the city.
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The flood not only affected the prison but also caused widespread damage to critical infrastructure. Among the most impacted areas are the Shehu of Borno’s palace, the Nigeria Customs Service office, the State Secretariat, and the Maiduguri Zoo.
Institutions like the State Specialist Hospital and the College of Health Technology have also been submerged, with many areas becoming inaccessible due to water-logged roads and collapsed bridges.
This flooding disaster is said to be the worst the region has experienced since 1994.
As rescue operations continue, residents in affected areas have been evacuating their homes, and humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to provide emergency relief for those displaced by the disaster.
