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By Luka Binnyat
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has established a technical committee to investigate the collapse of Alau Dam. The dam’s partial collapse on September 10 resulted in severe flooding in Maiduguri Metropolis and surrounding local government areas.
The flooding displaced nearly 2 million people and destroyed numerous properties. Constructed between 1984 and 1986, the dam provided water for irrigation and domestic use in Maiduguri and its environs.
According to Alhahji Bukar Tijani, Secretary to the Borno State Government, the committee will comprise 26 members. Engr. Abba Garba will chair the committee, with the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Water Resources, serving as Co-Chairman.
Other members include representatives from various organizations, such as the Flood Control Committee, Nigerian Society of Engineers, and Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria. The University of Maiduguri, Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Police Force will also be represented.
The committee’s inauguration is scheduled for Saturday at 2:00 pm in the government house council chamber. Their task is to determine the cause of the dam’s collapse and provide recommendations.
The Alau Dam collapse has had devastating consequences for the people of Maiduguri and surrounding areas. Governor Zulum’s swift action in establishing the committee demonstrates his commitment to addressing the situation.
The committee’s findings will be crucial in preventing similar incidents in the future. Their investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the dam’s collapse.
By taking proactive steps, Governor Zulum aims to mitigate the impact of the disaster and ensure the well-being of the affected communities.