Tragdy struck parts of Borno State over the weekend as floods and a severe windstorm wreaked havoc in Damboa and Askira-Uba Local Government Areas, claiming two lives and leaving dozens of families homeless.
According to a statement by Dauda Iliya, spokesperson to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, two women lost their lives in Wovi community of Damboa following a devastating flood. In nearby Gumsuri, several homes were submerged, displacing numerous families.
Meanwhile, in Rumirgo, Askira-Uba LGA, a violent windstorm destroyed both public and private property, compounding the woes of already vulnerable residents.
Reacting to the disasters, Governor Zulum expressed deep sorrow over the incidents and extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and communities.
“I received with profound sorrow the sad news of the devastating flood in Wovi, which claimed the lives of two women, alongside the destruction of homes in Gumsuri. Equally distressing is the windstorm in Rumirgo. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected,” Zulum stated.
In a swift response, the governor ordered the immediate deployment of relief materials to all affected areas. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has since commenced the distribution of food items, bedding, and other essential supplies in Gumsuri, Wovi, and Rumirgo communities.
“I have directed SEMA to ensure no one is left without assistance. Humanitarian supplies have already been dispatched to the people of Rumirgo,” the governor affirmed.
This latest disaster comes less than a year after Borno State suffered a similar calamity, where floods claimed several lives and destroyed farmlands, homes, and livelihoods across multiple communities.
Governor Zulum also reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborating with national disaster management agencies and enhancing early warning systems to reduce the impact of natural disasters on residents.
