The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Aliyu Muktar Betara has donated the sum of N100 million to support the victims of the flood disaster that ravaged Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Betara who is the member representing Biu/Bayo/Shani and Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency of Borno State made the donation when he visited Governor Babagana Zulum during an assessment of the flood disaster in Maiduguri.
While expressing grief over the death and displacement of thousands of Maiduguri residents, the lawmaker applauded the prompt intervention of Governor Zulum towards cushioning the effects of the flood disaster.
Betara who expressed solidarity with the victims, assured that necessary intervention will be provided through relevant institutions with a view to ensure their rehabilitation.
“As evident, thousands of our people were rendered homeless and their livelihood washed away. May Almighty Allah condole you and all of us and grant the departed souls of our loved ones Aljana-Filta.
“I wish to also commend Your Excellency and your cabinet for rallying support for our people who were affected by this unfortunate incident as well as the previous interventions you have initiated to bring succour to the affected people across the State.
“We are so proud of you and wish to pledge our unfettered support in all ramifications in the bid to alleviate the suffering of our dear citizens who elected us to various offices.
“To this end, I wish to, on behalf of myself, Family and the good people of Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya/Kusar Federal Constituency donate the sum of N100 million to support the affected people of Maiduguri,” Betara said.
He further pledged to ensure that the flood disaster which remains a major humanitarian crisis is brought to the floor as a matter of Urgent Public Importance when the House resumes from its annual recess.
According to report by National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), no fewer than 37 deaths have so far been recorded during the disaster which started last week Friday.
Breakdown of the mortality showed that seven deaths were recorded as at last week Saturday, while additional 30 deaths were recorded as at Thursday, September 12, 2024.
Speaking on the current trend of flooding across the country, NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar indicated that 29 states and 172 local government areas have been impacted by flooding, affecting 1,048,312 people, displaced 625,239 and have led to the death of 259 lives.
“This occurrence is not in total deviation from the predictions as contained in this year’s Annual Flood Outlook released by NIHSA which informed that in the months of July to September 2024, 33 states and 135 LGAs are within flood high-risk areas, while the period between October and November has 19 states and 44 LGAs,” Umar said.