The Borno State government has raised concerns about fake victims infiltrating Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps set up to aid those affected by the recent flooding caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, News About Nigeria reports.
Governor Babagana Zulum expressed frustration over the situation during the distribution of relief materials to flood victims, noting that the presence of non-affected people is complicating efforts to provide effective support.
Governor Zulum said, “We have observed that the situation has become unsustainable due to the influx of non-affected individuals into the camps. It is challenging to manage the camps efficiently under these conditions.”
He assured that the state government would assess the impacted areas to ensure that aid reaches those who genuinely need it.
The flooding, which has displaced over 2 million people and caused huge damage to homes, farmlands, and other properties valued at millions of naira, has led the Borno government to establish IDP camps, including one at Bakassi Camp along Damboa Road in Maiduguri.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has pledged the federal government’s support for the victims of the disaster.
During a visit to Maiduguri on Monday, Tinubu expressed deep sympathy for the people of Borno and commended Governor Zulum for his leadership.
The president said that the federal government is committed to helping the state recover from the devastation.
“I am here to sympathise with you. I heard the report, and my vice president gave me detailed information. I was headed to America, but I called off the trip to be with you,” Tinubu said during a visit to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn El-Kanemi.
The President also noted that the Federal Government will prioritise assistance for Borno State.
The recent floods have claimed the lives of around 37 people, displaced nearly one million residents, and caused extensive damage to property across the state.