Floods in northern Nigeria have devastated over 80% of the animals at a large zoo in Borno State, home to wildlife such as lions, crocodiles, buffaloes, and ostriches.
Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo reported that some dangerous animals, including crocodiles and snakes, were swept into nearby communities, prompting a warning for residents to stay cautious.
The flooding occurred after a dam overflowed due to heavy rains, displacing thousands of people.
The disaster has impacted various locations in Maiduguri, including a teaching hospital and the post office, according to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s office, urging residents to evacuate the most affected regions.
“President Tinubu sends his deepest sympathies to the state’s government and people, particularly to families who have lost their livelihoods as a result of the Alau Dam overflow,” the statement said, adding that humanitarian needs would be addressed.
Floods in the northeast recently claimed at least 49 lives, following a 2022 flood that resulted in over 600 deaths.
Borno state, already facing a 15-year insurgency from Boko Haram, continues to deal with the displacement and loss of life caused by the ongoing violence.
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