Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has voiced serious concerns regarding the possible escape of Boko Haram leaders from a correctional facility in Maiduguri, following a catastrophic flood that has wreaked havoc on the region.
The flood, which recently struck the state capital, resulted in fatalities and substantial property damage estimated in millions of naira. It also affected a section of the old prison, prompting the relocation of many prisoners to the newly constructed maximum security prison in Maiduguri. There are fears that the flood may have led to prisoner evacuations or escapes.
In an interview with BBC, Governor Zulum confirmed his worries about the potential escape of Boko Haram leaders. He emphasized that the Borno State Government’s initiative, known as the Borno Model of Rehabilitation, has successfully facilitated the repentance of over 200,000 Boko Haram members and their families over the past two years, contributing to the region’s stability.
Despite these efforts, Zulum lamented the additional disaster brought by the flood. He highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis, noting the state’s history of conflict and the destruction of vital infrastructure, including classrooms and facilities.
The governor acknowledged the challenges in providing adequate support to flood victims, explaining that immediate food distribution to millions is unfeasible. Instead, the government plans to resettle affected individuals in camps to streamline aid distribution and prevent further suffering.
“The support provided is never enough,” Zulum said, underscoring the ongoing struggle to manage both the flood’s aftermath and the region’s persistent security challenges.
