Borno flood: Reps dump proposed N300bn grant to assist victims

The House of Representatives on Wednesday dumped a proposal for a N300 billion grant from the Federal Government to assist Borno State flood victims.

Recall the Borno flood happend after the collapse of the Alau Dam, which led to the death of 40 persons and caused severe damage to the Palace of the Shehu of Borno, Maiduguri Correctional Centre, and other public institutions.

This resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance by Rep. Amos Magaji, lawmaker representing Jaba/Zangon/Kataf Federal Constituency of Kaduna State highlighting the devastation caused by the flooding in Maiduguri.

He noted that homes, markets, and health facilities were heavily impacted, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, which became inaccessible.

Magaji said, “The Cancer Centre, one of the largest in the country, was submerged, destroying vital equipment, medical records, and administrative files.”
He also noted that electricity at the hospital had collapsed to prevent electrocution as transformers and power sources were affected.

Responding, Rep. Inuwa Garba, lawmaker representing Yamaltu Deba Federal Constituency of Gombe State, proposed an amendment calling on the Federal Government to grant N300 billion to support flood victims.

However, when Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the amendment to a vote, the house rejected it, and argued that donations from government agencies and private citizens, already in the billions, were sufficient, urging the government to provide additional support without specifying an amount.
Rep. Yusuf Gagdi, lawmaker representing Kanke/Pankshin/Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State described the flood’s impact as serious, saying, “despite contributions, the disaster’s effects can’t be fully addressed.”

Similarly, Rep. Ahmed Satomi from Borno State thanked donors but stressed the need for stronger intervention due to the extent of the damage.

The House unanimously adopted the motion and urged the Federal Government to focus on repairing key infrastructure, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Shehu of Borno Palace, and Maiduguri Correctional Centre.
It also mandated its relevant committees to ensure compliance with these resolutions.