The Lagos State Government has issued a warning to residents living near the Ogun River about the possibility of flooding. This comes as the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority begins releasing water from the Oyan Dam to protect its structure and manage water levels.
During a press briefing, the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources explained that the water release is necessary to ensure the safety of the dam and prevent any future damage. The process is based on real-time data from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). These agencies provide rainfall and flood predictions, which guide decisions on how much water to release.
Communities along the Ogun River, including Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, and Owode, are advised to stay alert and consider moving to higher ground if needed. Although the water release from the dam is being carefully managed, the government is taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of residents in these areas.
It’s important to understand that the flooding risk in these communities is not only due to the Oyan Dam. The lower Ogun River is affected by over 50 smaller rivers and streams that flow into it. During periods of heavy rainfall, these tributaries also contribute to rising water levels, making the flood situation more severe.
To help reduce the risk of flooding, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority has started dredging sections of the Ogun River. This will deepen the river channel, allowing more water to flow through and lowering the chance of flooding during heavy rain or water releases.
The Lagos State Government is working closely with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Authority to monitor the situation and address any concerns raised by the affected communities. Special attention is being given to vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Residents are urged to cooperate with the government’s efforts by keeping drains clear of debris and avoiding the dumping of trash into drainage channels. This will help ensure that water can flow freely and reduce the risk of localized flooding.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, emphasized the importance of community cooperation and the government’s commitment to flood management. He reassured residents that the government will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
