The Federal Government of Nigeria has refuted claims that the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State, collapsed, causing the recent devastating flood.

Instead, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr Joseph Utsev, attributed the flood to the overflow of the Ngadda river, a major tributary of River Yedzaram.

During a press briefing, Utsev explained that the flood was caused by excessive rainfall and climate change, leading to a massive inflow of water into the Alau Dam, which eventually overflowed. He assured that the Federal Government sympathizes with the affected people and is committed to upgrading the Alau Dam to prevent future occurrences.

The Minister also warned of imminent flooding in the Niger Delta region and southern states, urging authorities to activate emergency measures to mitigate the impact. He stated that the daily flow on rivers Niger and Benue indicates a significant increase in flow levels, tend-ing towards a RED alert.

Utsev emphasized the need for vigilance and proactive measures to address potential flooding events in the southern part of the country. He also promised to provide sanitation kits and water treatment facilities to displaced persons as part of the ministry’s immediate intervention.

“We did not envisage the magnitude of the water this year due to climate change, and the downpour was in excess. The rivers could not contain the water, and more water was spilled into Alau Dam, causing it to overflow,” Utsev explained.

READ ALSO: NDLEA apprehends notorious drug baron behind multiple cocaine shipments

Acquire Agip’s Liabilities, Not Only Assets, Diri urges Oando

BREAKING! Crude Oil: NNPC seeks permanent presence at Dangote refinery

“There was no collapse of Alau Dam. It was one of the dykes that could not hold excess water that came from the tributaries that overflowed the dam,” he added.