Severe flooding in Borno State has resulted in the deaths of approximately 80% of animals at the Sanda Kyari Zoo in Maiduguri. The disaster, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, has also prompted the closure of the University of Maiduguri and Borno State University until September 16, 2024.
Severe flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, has resulted in the deaths of approximately 80% of the animals at the Sanda Kyari Zoo. The flooding was triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam in the Konduga area, which caused significant damage to the zoo and surrounding properties.
Ali Abatcha, the Zoo’s General Manager, issued a statement confirming the tragic loss of animal life and warning the public that dangerous animals, including crocodiles and snakes, have been swept into nearby communities. He urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid encounters with these animals.
In response to the flooding crisis, both the University of Maiduguri and Borno State University have suspended classes and closed their campuses. Fatima Muhammad Audu, the Acting Senior Assistant Registrar at Borno State University, announced that the closure would last from September 10 to September 16, 2024, following directives from the Borno State Ministry of Education.
The University of Maiduguri also confirmed a temporary suspension of lectures and office operations due to safety concerns related to the flooding. The institution's management expressed sympathy for those affected by the disaster and emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of students and staff.
As the situation develops, the Borno State government has ordered a statewide closure of all public and private schools until September 23, 2024, in light of the ongoing emergency.
