The city of Maiduguri is grappling with its most severe flooding in over three decades, with dangerous animals such as crocodiles and snakes taking to the streets.

Daily Report Nigeria had reported that Maiduguri Zoo, also known as Sanda Kyarimi Park, has been inundated, allowing the animals to escape and invade the surrounding areas.

The flooding, which began at approximately 1 am on Tuesday, has displaced numerous families and affected several major centers in the city, including the Post Office, Monday Market, and the Shehu’s palace.

It was revealed that the University of Maiduguri, its Teaching Hospital, and the Government House are also among the buildings submerged by the floodwaters.

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The flooding in Maiduguri is reportedly the worst since 1994, caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam, which has been at full capacity for the past week.

Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof Usman Tar, issued a statement on Tuesday urging immediate evacuation of affected areas and cautioning residents to follow designated evacuation routes for their safety.

It read:

Due to the unusually high volume of water this year, we urge all residents living along the river bank to take immediate action to protect themselves and their properties.

“The situation remains dire, with the Alau Dam water breaking down another channel, destroying farms and heading towards the river bank.”