Ogun Government Issues Flood Alert, Advises Residents in Low-Lying Areas to Relocate

The Ogun State Government has issued a flood alert, urging residents living along riverbanks and in wetland areas to relocate in anticipation of the Ogun River overflowing between October 20 and November 3.

The warning was issued in a statement by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, in Abeokuta on Monday. He explained that the alert is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of seasonal flooding through regular public advisories.

According to Oresanya, the overflow is expected due to the controlled release of excess water from the Oyan Dam, triggered by heavy rainfall in the northern parts of the country. The increased water inflow into the dam, combined with rising tidal levels, will significantly raise water levels in the Ogun River.

The affected areas include Akute, Alagbole, Isheri, Magboro, Makogi, Orimerunmu, Iro, Kajola, and parts of Abeokuta such as Lafenwa, Enugada, Adedotun, Iberekodo, Akin-Olugbade, and Ago-Odo.

“The release of water from the Oyan Dam is inevitable due to the volume of water reaching the reservoir from the north. This will lead to a rise in water levels, potentially causing flooding in downstream communities,” Oresanya said.

He urged residents in the affected areas to be cautious and take preventive action to avoid loss of lives and property. Those living near the riverbanks were advised to keep a safe distance, while individuals in wetlands were encouraged to temporarily relocate to higher ground or elevate their structures.

Oresanya noted that the state government, in collaboration with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Authority, has been consistently dredging the Ogun River and opening up additional tributaries to reduce the pressure from potential flooding.

While reassuring the public not to panic, he stated that the floodwaters are expected to subside within 10 days. However, he cautioned that despite mitigation efforts, natural occurrences cannot be entirely prevented.

The commissioner also advised fish farmers in the listed areas to harvest their stock immediately to avoid losses.

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