The devastating flood situation in Maiduguri necessitates immediate attention and action from all stakeholders, including political leaders to mitigate the hardships faced by the victims who have been displaced from their homes and livelihoods.
The recent outbreak of flooding in Maiduguri was a horrific incident and unprecedented in the history of Borno State and the country at large. It is imperative that the National Assembly, as a branch of the government, demonstrates solidarity with the people of Borno State.
I appeal to the 109 senators in the upper chamber and 360 Members of the House of Representatives in the lower chamber of the National Assembly to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of Maiduguri residents affected by the flood.
They should consider sacrificing their September salaries to support the victims who have lost properties, loved ones and houses, and are facing a deep trauma.
Although the National Assembly has expressed sympathy with the Borno State Government and its residents as well as urged the federal government to take action on the tragic incident caused by the flood, the people of Maiduguri deserve more than just a sympathetic message from the legislative organ of government at this critical moment.
Your donation of your September salaries to Maiduguri flood victims will undoubtedly help in alleviating their hardships and put confidence in your constituents. This gesture will show that their representatives are committed to supporting those in need.
The National Assembly should urgently call for an emergency sitting of both the upper and lower chambers to discuss these issues to save human lives.
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It is imperative for the National Assembly to consider and accept this call, as this incident happened suddenly and at a time when many of the victims were struggling with economic challenges and high cost of living. The outbreak of this flood in Maiduguri has resulted in the loss of lives and properties, and left some individuals homeless and hopeless.
This situation of Maiduguri residents is heart-breaking. It is crucial to find immediate solutions to alleviate their untold suffering.
I also appeal to members of the state legislatures across the country not to fold their arms, waiting for their state governments to offer assistance to Borno State. Instead, they should find ways, as an organ of government in their respective states, to provide their own support and contributions.
Remember!, your contribution as members of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly to Maiduguri residents affected by flood, is equivalent to representing the efforts of all your constituents in alleviating the suffering of their fellow citizens, especially those who are unable to provide personal support because they lack the means.
Sale Rusulana Yanguruza wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Borno State University
