Several communities in Ondo State are now counting their losses after three days of torrential rainfall caused severe flooding, destroying homes and property.
The floods damaged roads, bridges, and houses, displacing residents, shutting markets, and halting socioeconomic activities across the state.
Communities affected include Uso, Okitipupa, Ilaje, Ese-Odo, and Akoko South West Local Government Areas. Motorists were stranded following the collapse of multiple bridges.
In Okitipupa, Ayeka, Ikoya, Igbodigo, Igodanlisa, Igbogunrin, Igbotako, and Ilutuntun were among the hardest hit. In Ilaje, the Naval Base and council headquarters in Igbokoda were submerged. Coastal areas like Ilare, Omonira, Aboto, Ikuomola, Mahin, and Ugbo also suffered extensive flooding.
Residents pleaded with the state and federal governments, as well as humanitarian agencies, for immediate relief and long-term interventions. They urged authorities to rebuild damaged infrastructure and implement lasting flood control measures such as drainage systems, dredging, and improved urban planning.
Adeyori Ojo from Igbokoda recounted narrowly escaping with his family when floodwaters swept through Broad Street at dawn.
Owo Local Government Chairman, Tope Omolayo, described the flood’s impact on Uso as devastating and appealed for urgent government assistance.
At his palace, the Oloba of Uso, Oba Ademola Oyinbade, lamented that the flood had crippled economic life in the community and called for permanent solutions.
A local farmer, Joseph Ijigba, shared his frustration at being unable to reach his farm, with the access road completely washed away. The local market also remained closed.
The Permanent Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Idowu Ojo, sympathised with victims and assured them that relief materials would be provided. He urged residents to stop dumping waste in rivers and drainage channels to prevent future flooding.