The proposal for a total sum of ₦300bn from the Federal Government to address the humanitarian crisis in Borno, which arose from the flooding in Maiduguri, was rejected by the House of Representatives.
This rejection came after the heavy flooding, triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam, led to the loss of over 40 lives and extensive damage to key public structures like the Palace of the Shehu of Borno and the Maiduguri Correctional Centre.
During the recent plenary session, Amos Magaji, the representative of Jaba/Zangon Kataf Federal Constituency, brought up the urgent matter, expressing concerns about the significant impact of the flooding on homes, markets, and various health facilities.
One of the most distressing outcomes was the devastating effect on the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, leaving the renowned Cancer Centre and critical equipment submerged, along with adversely affecting medical records and power supplies.
Magaji emphasized the urgent need for intervention to prevent potential disease outbreaks among the people of Borno as a result of the flooding.
Inuwa Garba, the member representing Yamaltu Deba Federal Constituency, Gombe State, proposed an amendment suggesting a special grant of about ₦300bn from the Federal Government to assist flood victims in mitigating the humanitarian crisis.
However, when the proposal was put to a vote, lawmakers opposed the idea of allocating a specific amount and instead called on the Federal Government to extend support to the victims to the fullest extent possible.
The House reasoned that substantial donations had already been made by government agencies and individuals, amounting to billions of Naira.
Yusuf Gagdi, representing Kanke/Pankshin/Kanam Federal Constituency, Plateau State, expressed deep concern over the calamity.
“People have been displaced, and businesses lost. Despite the contributions, the gap left by this disaster cannot be fully addressed.”
Ahmed Satomi, the lawmaker representing Jere Federal Constituency in Borno, thanked everyone for their contributions but emphasized the urgent need for more substantial assistance to address the devastating impact of the recent floods in Maiduguri and surrounding areas .
Following the adoption of the motion, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to support key institutions affected by the disaster.
