Aaior K. Comfort

The Lagos State Government has advised residents living along the banks of the Ogun River to prepare for relocation as the Ogun Osun River Basin Development Authority begins releasing water from the Oyan Dam. This move comes amid concerns about potential flooding in nearby communities, with the government closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with Ogun State authorities.

According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the decision to release water from the dam was informed by real-time hydrological data, rainfall predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, and flood outlooks from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency.

Several communities along the Ogun River, including Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, Owode, Ajegunle, and Odo-Ogun, are at risk of flooding. Some residents in areas like Isheri, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, have already begun evacuating as the water levels gradually rise.

Wahab noted that while the Oyan Dam is a factor in flooding, over 52 tributaries contribute to the rising water levels in these areas. The combination of dam releases and rain-induced runoff significantly exacerbates the flood risks. In response, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority has started dredging efforts along the Ogun River downstream to alleviate the situation.

The Lagos State Government continues to urge residents to clear drains and avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse to help prevent flood-related disasters. Additionally, the government remains committed to working with relevant agencies to support vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, during this time.