A zoo in northern Nigeria has reported that more than 80% of its animals have died in severe flooding, with some dangerous creatures escaping into nearby communities.
The disaster has affected other facilities in the state capital, Maiduguri, including a post office and a teaching hospital, said the office of the Nigerian president, Bola Tinubu, which told people to evacuate the worst-hit areas.
The Sanda Kyarimi Park zoo in Borno state warned residents to be cautious, stating: “Some deadly animals have been washed away into our communities, like crocodiles and snakes.”
The flooding, caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam following heavy rains, has affected numerous facilities in Maiduguri, the state capital. A post office and teaching hospital are among the buildings impacted by the disaster.
President Bola Tinubu has called for the evacuation of the worst-affected areas and expressed condolences to those who have lost their livelihoods.
“President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the state, especially to the families that have lost their means of livelihood due to the disaster triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam,” a statement from the president’s office said.
This latest incident follows floods in north-eastern Nigeria last month that claimed at least 49 lives. In 2022, flooding in the country resulted in more than 600 deaths.
The disaster adds to the challenges faced by Borno state, which continues to grapple with a 15-year insurgency by the Boko Haram jihadist group.
As authorities work to address the immediate humanitarian needs, concerns remain about the potential dangers posed by escaped wildlife and the long-term impact on the region’s biodiversity.
