Dare Babalola
The Ogun State Government has issued a flood alert for residents living in riverbank and wetland areas, warning them to prepare for potential overflow from the Ogun River between October 20th and November 3rd.
The alert is due to heavy rainfall in the north, which is expected to increase the volume of water in the Oyan Dam, necessitating a controlled release.
According to the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, on Monday, the state government has taken proactive steps to mitigate the impact of the flood.
These measures include dredging and opening up more tributaries for the Ogun River to ease the pressure of the overflow on residents.
Oresanya added the government is working closely with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, the owners of the Oyan Dam, to ensure a controlled release of water from the dam.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid riverbanks and surrounding areas while those living in low-lying areas are also advised to consider moving to higher grounds temporarily until the situation normalizes.
The affected areas include, Akute, Alagbole, Isheri, Magboro, Makogi, Orimerunmu, Iro, Kajola while some parts of Abeokuta in Ogun are Lafenwa, Enugada, Adedotun, Iberekodo, Akin-Olugbade and Ago-Odo.
The Commissioner urged residents not to panic, assuring them that the situation is expected to normalise in about ten days, while also calling on fish farmers in the area to harvest their fish to avoid losses, as the floodwaters may damage their ponds and equipment.
He assured that the government is taking all necessary measures to minimize the impact of the flood and ensure the safety of residents. Residents are advised to stay informed and follow updates from the state government.
