Tinubu: Maiduguri flood was a natural disaster… we can’t blame anyone

President Bola Tinubu says the flood that ravaged most of Maiduguri was a “natural disaster” that no one should be blamed for. 

The president spoke on Monday during a visit to Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.

On September 10, Alau Dam, which had been at full capacity in the weeks prior, collapsed. This led to the worst flooding in the state in 30 years.

The flood affected swathes of Maiduguri, culminating in the displacement of over 400,000 residents and the death of over 30 persons.

Borno experienced severe flooding in 1994 when the dam collapsed, resulting in the destruction of crops and property. Six northern states — Kebbi, Kaduna, Sokoto, Katsina, Kwara, Plateau, and parts of Cameroon — were also adversely affected.

Tinubu paid visits to the Borno government house, Shehu of Borno palace, and the camp of internally displaced persons (IDP).

The president said government cannot apportion blame for the disaster.

“This disaster was a natural one. It was not the making of anybody,” Tinubu was quoted as saying in a statement from Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy.

“We cannot pass the blame. We pray that the Almighty Allah will receive the souls of the departed and grant them eternal rest.

“May God also overlook their shortcomings and misdeeds on earth.”

The president also said he has “been reflecting on how to tackle this kind of disaster and the effects of climate change”.

DISASTER RELIEF FUND

The president announced the creation of a disaster relief fund, adding that he will invite the private sector to collaborate in the rebuilding of affected Borno communities.

“There must be a disaster relief fund. I will invite the private sector to team up with us and help rebuild the affected areas,” Tinubu added.

“If we take a small percentage from FAAC and put it as a disaster relief fund, which will include all of you, we will be activating and strengthening our sense of belonging.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who accompanied Tinubu on the visit, said the national assembly will collaborate with the executive to establish the fund.