Flood Alert: Ogun Advises Residents in Vulnerable Communities to Move to Safety

 








Aina Obasanjo 


Ogun State Government has advised residents in vulnerable communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas where necessary the second phase of the 2026 rainy season begins.


The Commissioner for Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya, gave the advice in a statement, following the Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, NiMet, which identified Ogun among states expected to experience heavy rainfall this year.

Dr Oresanya said the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from mid-March to July, recorded intense rainfall and isolated cases of flash flooding, but with relatively minimal impact.

He attributed the success to proactive measures by the state government, including public awareness campaigns, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, and improved waste management.


The Commissioner said attention had also been given to major waterways and river channels, including Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido.



According to him, the second phase of the rainy season is expected to begin in September, with Ogun projected to record an average rainfall of about 360 millimetres during the month.

He, however, warned that prolonged rainfall, controlled releases from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could increase the risk of river and coastal flooding in parts of the state.


Mr Oresanya also advised residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as some parts of Abeokuta, to remain alert and move to safer locations when necessary.


The Commissioner further advised fish farmers operating within floodplains and river corridors to harvest their stocks promptly to reduce possible losses.
He specifically mentioned fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami among those who should act without delay.

Mr Oresanya called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Local Government Authorities, emergency response organisations and community leaders to intensify flood monitoring and response activities.


He also urged stakeholders to ensure that drainage channels remain free of obstructions and strengthen public awareness in vulnerable communities.


The Commissioner assured residents that the state government would continue to monitor weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant agencies.


He urged residents to take the warning seriously and remain responsive to further updates from the government and emergency management authorities.

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