Ogun State Government Alerts Residents on Impending Floods, Urges Evacuation from Wetlands

The Ogun State Government has issued a flood alert in a proactive move to mitigate the potential impact of the upcoming rainy season, urging residents living in wetland areas to relocate to safer grounds before the rains commence fully. According to forecasts from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the rain is expected to start in March and last until December 2024, spanning an average of 239 rainy days with an average precipitation of 1786.5mm across 16 out of the 20 local government areas in the state.

Mr. Ola Oresanya, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, emphasized the urgency of the situation during the 2024 Ogun State Flood Alert event held in conjunction with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA). He highlighted that local government areas such as Imeko-Afon, Odeda, Abeokuta North, and Abeokuta South are expected to experience the lowest rainfall levels, while residents in hilly areas may face erosion due to the speed of water runoff.

Ogun State Government: Relocation and Elevation, Key Measures for Flood Preparedness

Commissioner Oresanya underscored the importance of relocation or elevation as crucial measures for residents living in flood-prone areas. “It is either you relocate from the area or you elevate; maybe you want to reconstruct your house or do some kind of elevation if you must stay in that area,” he stated. Acknowledging the difficulties associated with relocation, he advised residents who choose to remain in wetland areas to elevate their electronics, furniture, and other valuables to mitigate potential damage.

The commissioner emphasized that areas located in the wetlands of the state, predominantly in the southern parts and bordering Lagos, will experience the most significant impact due to their flat, low-lying terrain. “People leaving within the wetland of the state are supposed to prepare for this increase in the height of the water because we are going to have a retention of this lockdown around this period,” he warned.

Ogun State Government’s Efforts: Drainage Channels, River Desilting, and Erosion Control

To complement its efforts in addressing the menace of flooding, the Ogun State Government has undertaken the construction of 2,975.6 meters of drainage channels, mini-bridges, and culverts across the state. Additionally, the state plans to desilt and clear 56.159 meters of river and stream courses, as well as desilt 40,000 meters of drainage channels across the three senatorial districts.

Specific areas targeted for these interventions include the construction of drainage channels and culverts at Wesley Primary School in Ijebu-Ode, reconstruction of a dilapidated culvert at Saje Dumpsite road in Apakila (Abeokuta), Igbosoro (Ogijo, Sagamu), and Imasai. River and stream desilting efforts will focus on Yemile (Ijebu-Ode), Sensen river (Sagamu), Onibuku (Ota), Odo-funfun (Oja-Odan), Opa Aro (Isheri), Sokori river and its tributaries, while drainage channel desilting will take place in Abeokuta, Ifo, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Ilaro, and Ota, among other areas.

Ogun State Government’s Analysis Rainfall Patterns and Farming Opportunities

According to Commissioner Oresanya, the length of the rainy season for coastal areas ranges between 250 and 292 days, while inland areas can expect rainfall between 200 and 250 days. This information is crucial for farmers and agricultural activities, as the commissioner encouraged them to commence planting activities in preparation for the upcoming rainy season.

The timely dissemination of this flood alert and rainfall pattern information aims to empower residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, to take necessary precautions and make informed decisions. By providing advance warning and outlining specific measures, the Ogun State Government seeks to minimize the potential impact of flooding and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens during the upcoming rainy season.

Ogun State Government Advices: Collaboration and Preparedness, Keys to Effective Flood Management

The Ogun State Government’s proactive approach to flood management underscores the importance of collaboration and preparedness in addressing natural disasters. By working closely with agencies like NIMET, NIHSA, and the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA), the state aims to leverage expert knowledge and resources to develop comprehensive strategies for flood mitigation and response.
Through initiatives such as the construction of drainage infrastructure, river desilting, and erosion control measures, the state demonstrates its commitment to investing in long-term solutions to address the recurring challenges posed by flooding. Additionally, by encouraging residents to take proactive steps like relocation or elevation, the government seeks to foster a culture of preparedness and resilience among its citizens.

Ogun State Government: Community Engagement and Awareness, Empowering Residents

Effective flood management requires not only government efforts but also active community engagement and awareness. The Ogun State Government’s flood alert serves as a crucial step in empowering residents with vital information, enabling them to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and property.

By disseminating information through various channels, including public forums and media outlets, the state aims to reach a wider audience and ensure that no resident is left uninformed about the impending risks and recommended actions. Fostering a collaborative approach that involves both government agencies and community members is essential for building a resilient and prepared society capable of mitigating the impact of natural disasters like flooding.