Flood Alert: Ogun Govt Warns Coastline Residents to Relocate

The Ogun State Government has issued a flood alert, warning residents in coastline communities to relocate to safer environments between the last week of September and the second week of October.

This directive is in anticipation of the expected overflow from rivers and sea water rise, which may affect several communities along the coast.

According to sources, the flooding is expected to be caused by a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall, water release from Oyan Dam, and tidal lock and sea water rise.

The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has predicted that September will have the highest rainfall of 204mm, followed by October with 190mm, while November is expected to decline to 93mm.

The affected communities include Ilo, Iju, Owa, Yemule, Isheri, Warewa, Akute, Ayetoro, Itele, Iju Makun, Oni, Iwopin, Igele, Ifaara in Ogun Waterside, Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East, Tungeji Island, and Agosasa in Ipokia Local Government Area.

The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been placed on red alert and is ready to respond to emergencies.

Temporary emergency camps have been set up across the State for possible evacuation.

The Government is working closely with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority to regulate water releases from Oyan Dam and minimize the impact of flooding.

Residents in the affected communities are advised to avoid using boreholes and well waters during this period due to contamination risks.

Fish farmers in flood-prone areas, such as Eriwe, Yemule, Ijebu Ode, Ilase, and Ayegbami, are also urged to harvest their fish immediately to prevent losses.

The Government has assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to mitigate the impact of the flooding and ensure their safety.

Residents are advised to take the warning seriously and relocate to safer environments to avoid any potential risks.