OYO ASSEMBLY CALLS FOR PROACTIVE FLOOD MITIGATION MEASURES.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a motion to intensify flood risk mitigation measures ahead of the rainy season. 

The motion, which was sponsored by Olusola Owolabi, urged the state government to take proactive steps to prevent devastating floods, following predictions of heavy flooding in 1,249 communities across Nigeria, including Oyo State.

The lawmakers directed the Oyo State Flood Management and Control Agency to conduct community-based sensitization campaigns, collaborating with relevant ministries and local governments to ensure resident safety, as well as to maintain flood infrastructure, execute new control works in high-risk areas, and engage community leaders in the sensitization process.

The Assembly also asked the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters to direct Chairmen to deploy motorcycles with megaphones for flood awareness announcements in remote communities, while the Ministry of Information and Orientation will encourage the public to cooperate with sensitization efforts and report blocked drains and waterways. 

They also advised residents to refrain from indiscriminate waste disposal to reduce flood risks.