By Ezekiel David
Devastating floods in Borno State have ravaged the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo, resulting in the death of over 80% of its animal population.
“Some deadly animals have been washed away into our communities, like crocodiles and snakes,” said a statement from the zoo, which was home to a wide variety of wildlife including lions, crocodiles, buffalo, and ostriches.
Floods in Maiduguri, the state capital, have affected essential infrastructure and caused thousands of people to be relocated due to heavy rains and a dam overflow. Facilities including a teaching hospital and post office are impacted.
President Bola Tinubu’s office has urged residents to evacuate the hardest-hit areas and offered condolences, stating, “President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the state, especially to the families that have lost their means of livelihood due to the disaster triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam.” The statement also pledged to address humanitarian needs.
The tragedy comes on the heels of last month’s devastating floods in the area that left at least 49 people dead and increased difficulties for Borno State, which is also dealing with an ongoing insurgency.
(Source: The Guardian)
