The Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning to residents of several flood-prone communities, advising them to relocate to safer areas immediately.
Communities along the Ogun, Ilo, Iju, Owa, and Yemule rivers — including Isheri, Warewa, Akute, parts of Abeokuta, Ayetoro, Itele, Iju, Makun, Oni, Iwopin, Igele, Ifaara, Ebute-Imobi, Tungeji Island, and Agosasa in Ipokia LGA — are expected to experience significant flooding in the coming days.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, explained that the flooding is caused by rising river levels, tidal lock from the sea, and high rainfall, which will be worsened by water releases from Oyan Dam.
“The overflow is expected to last for about two weeks. This is part of the second phase of flooding that usually occurs between September and November,” Oresanya stated in a midterm flood alert.
According to the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET), September will record the highest rainfall at 204mm, followed by 190mm in October, before reducing to 93mm in November.
Oresanya assured residents that the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is on standby for evacuations and has prepared temporary emergency camps. The Ministry of Environment is also working closely with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority to regulate water releases from Oyan Dam to minimize impact.
The commissioner further advised:
- Avoid using borehole and well water during the flooding period due to contamination risks.
- Fish farmers along flood plains should immediately harvest their stock to prevent losses.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, comply with safety directives, and contact emergency authorities when necessary.
