Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno, has expressed concern that jailed Boko Haram terrorists may have escaped from the Maiduguri correctional center due to the severe flooding that ravaged the state capital.
Gatekeepers News reports that the flooding, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, affected over two million people, displaced 400,000 residents, and resulted in the death of over 30 people.
Zulum told BBC News that he is “seriously worried” about the potential escape of insurgents.
“I’m worried. Yes, I’m seriously worried,” he said.
However, the Governor noted that his administration’s rehabilitation program has encouraged many insurgents to surrender.
“Within the last two years, over 200,000 Boko Haram members and their families have repented, and I think this has also yielded positive results in ensuring the return of peace and stability to Borno state.”
Regarding the flooding, Zulum attributed the disaster to the federal ministry of water resources’ failure to maintain the Alau Dam.
“The federal ministry of water resources has not maintained the dam for a very long time, and the heavy rainfall worsened the situation,” he said.
The Governor added that his administration has begun providing humanitarian assistance to flood victims.
