House of Reps Reject N300bn Allocation for Borno Flood Relief

The House of Representatives has declined a proposal to allocate N300 billion from the federation account to support victims of the recent flooding in Borno State, particularly in Maiduguri, where humanitarian crises have happened.

This decision follows devastating floods caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, which resulted in over 40 fatalities and extensive damage to public infrastructure, including the Palace of the Shehu of Borno and the Maiduguri Correctional Centre.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, Amos Magaji, the representative for Jaba/Zangon/Kataf Federal Constituency, highlighted the severe impact of the flooding.

He reported that many homes, markets, and health facilities were affected, including critical infrastructure at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Magaji expressed concern that the hospital's renowned Cancer Centre was submerged, leading to the destruction of vital medical equipment and records. He warned that without urgent intervention, the risk of disease outbreaks in Borno State could significantly increase.

In response to these concerns, Inuwa Garba, representing Yamaltu Deba Federal Constituency in Gombe State, proposed an amendment urging the Federal Government to provide a special grant of N300 billion to alleviate the humanitarian disaster.

Despite calls for support from various lawmakers, including Yusuf Gagdi from Plateau State and Ahmed Satomi from Borno, the amendment was ultimately rejected during a voice vote presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

The House instead urged the Federal Government to offer assistance to flood victims without specifying amounts.

The representatives acknowledged the ongoing efforts by government and private individuals to assist those affected but emphasized that these contributions were insufficient given the scale of destruction.

Following discussions, the House mandated its committees on Health Institutions and other relevant areas to ensure compliance with measures aimed at addressing the needs arising from this disaster.