Residents of Maiduguri, Borno State, are expressing outrage over the steep prices charged for canoe rides, a vital means of transportation following recent floods that devastated the city. With many roads rendered impassable, canoes have become essential for moving both people and their belongings.
Last week, local canoe owners generously volunteered their services to evacuate residents during the flooding crisis. However, now that the immediate danger has passed, many canoe operators are reportedly taking advantage of the situation by charging exorbitant fees.
Falmata Muhammed, a mother of three, shared her frustration, stating that she was quoted N80,000 to transport furniture for a short distance—an amount exceeding the monthly minimum wage. She expressed her dismay, saying, “Some are making it a big business, using the disaster to make a huge amount of money.”
Despite the rising costs, some canoe owners like Mohammed Yusuf are still offering free rides, although many residents insist on paying him for his services.
In response to the flooding, Governor Babagana Zulum convened an emergency meeting with UN humanitarian workers and development partners to strategize on addressing the flood’s aftermath, which has affected approximately 70 percent of Maiduguri. He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to avoid duplicating assistance in the affected areas and called for UN support in rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
KWARA STATE COMMUNITY DISPLACED BY FLOODS
In a separate incident, residents of the Bode Saadu community in Kwara State have been displaced due to severe flooding caused by recent heavy rains. Many homes were submerged, prompting local officials to promise support for those affected.
Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq visited the community to assess the damage and provide assurance to the residents. The flooding was exacerbated by the overflow of the Arinun Bridge, which led to significant property damage and displacement for those living near the riverbank. Residents noted that flooding is a recurrent issue in the area, with Bode Saadu being particularly affected this time.
Both situations highlight the urgent need for effective disaster management and support systems to assist communities facing such challenges.
