As floods devastated the northeastern city of Maiduguri last week, canoe owners initially stepped in to help stranded residents. However, many locals now feel exploited as canoe operators are demanding high fees to transport belongings.
The worst flooding in 30 years followed a dam collapse caused by torrential rains, which also impacted regions across West and Central Africa. With roads submerged and vehicles immobilized, residents are left with no choice but to rely on canoes for transportation.
Falmata Muhammed, a 48-year-old mother of three, was shocked when she was charged 80,000 naira ($49.56) to move her furniture—a price higher than Nigeria’s minimum monthly wage. After already losing much to the floods, she expressed frustration over those profiting from the disaster.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Yusuf, a canoe owner, said he continues to transport residents for free, though some have insisted on paying for his services.