The Ogun State Government has warned residents in flood-prone communities to prepare for possible flooding as heavier rainfall is expected across the state this September.
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, citing the latest seasonal forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency.
Oresanya said Ogun experienced heavy rainfall and some flash floods between March and July, but the effects were largely contained because of preventive measures introduced by the government.
He said the government had focused on clearing waterways, maintaining drainage systems, improving waste disposal and educating residents about flood risks.
He noted that “particular attention had been given to major river channels and waterways, including Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, among others”.
The commissioner said NiMet’s forecast showed that another phase of the rainy season would begin in September, with the state expected to record about 360mm of rainfall during the month.
Although rainfall is projected to ease from October and into early November, Oresanya warned that prolonged downpours could still cause flooding in several areas.
He said “the period could bring river and coastal flooding to some parts of the state due to prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations, which could impede the flow velocity of the Ogun River”.
According to him, the situation could become more severe in wetlands and floodplains because of excess water accumulation.
He explained that “the combined effect could result in temporary oversaturation of wetlands and floodplains, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable communities.”
Residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as vulnerable areas in Abeokuta, were advised to remain alert and move to safer locations when necessary.
The advisory also covers coastal settlements including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside, Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East, Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia, and communities around the Ilo and Iju River floodplains.
The government also advised fish farmers operating around floodplains and river corridors to harvest their stocks early to reduce possible losses.
Fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami were particularly urged to take immediate precautions.
Oresanya called on local councils, emergency agencies, community leaders and other relevant bodies to step up preparations, monitor areas considered vulnerable and keep drainage channels free from obstruction.
He also urged community leaders to intensify public enlightenment, stressing that early warnings and quick responses could help limit the impact of flooding.
The commissioner said Ogun would continue to monitor rainfall and water levels in partnership with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other stakeholders.
He assured residents that the state government would maintain efforts aimed at reducing flood risks and encouraged the public to remain attentive to further updates from authorities.