Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim-Imam is a prominent politician from Borno State. The Mutawalli Borno, Senior Counsellor, to the Shehu of Borno, Kashim was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Borno State in 2003 and 2007 but lost both times to Ali Modu Sheriff. He served as the Borno State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) during the Third Republic and as the Presidential Liaison Officer to the Senate during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. In this interview by ATIKU GALADIMA, Alhaji Ibrahim-Imam speaks on the humanitarian crisis facing the people of Borno as a result of the recent flood disaster there.
What is the current situation in Borno State following the flooding?
Every person in Borno is saddened by the loss of lives and property. The flood caught many off guard, as it started at night when people were sleeping, resulting in over a hundred deaths. Only two out of 15 wards in Maiduguri were spared.
What is the extent of the damage?
Almost 70 percent of Maiduguri was affected. People living around riverside and near-river areas were terribly hit. There are people who lost everything. As concerned citizens, we decided to help the victims by providing their immediate needs, especially food and shelter. I personally started sharing cooked food for victims in different IDP camps within Maiduguri and Jere because people need food and water to survive. I am committed to distributing 10,000 items daily. We are providing 72,000 bags of food to encourage people to return home. Everyone is affected, including my own children.
It is heartbreaking to see many without food or clothing. They were traumatised; watching everything get destroyed. They need support and encouragement to get through this challenging time.
What is being done principally to support them?
We will keep providing food and targeting the most vulnerable displaced persons. The Borno State government, the Federal Government, non-governmental organisations and personalities are donating money, food and non-food items to alleviate their suffering. We must act to prevent future calamities.
Can you elaborate on the loss suffered by Borno people as a result of this disaster?
The devastating flood has left many families shattered, with numerous children reported missing and mothers separated from their loved ones. Over 414,000 people are affected, with 37 reported deaths and 58 injuries. The actual numbers are likely higher, as some deaths remain undiscovered.
The flooding occurred during the lean season, worsening the existing food and nutrition crisis.
What health concerns have been brought about by the flooding?
Health issues are a major concern, with risks of acute diarrhea, malaria and other water-borne diseases. Many residents lack access to clean clothes, and the state government and well-meaning Nigerians are working to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other diseases.
What is the amount of support you are receiving from external organisations?
The World Health Organisation has pledged support to the flood-displaced persons in the state. The Federal Ministry of Environment has deployed experts to mitigate the effects of the flood. The United Nations and its partners are providing food assistance. They are providing multi-purpose cash assistance, water, sanitation, and healthcare services.
Continued support is crucial to alleviate suffering. We urge individuals and organisations to provide relief materials and support the affected communities. We pray that God Almighty alleviate the suffering of those affected by the flood.
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