Ogun issues fresh flood alert and urges residents in vulnerable areas to relocate

Ogun State has issued a fresh flood warning for September, with officials urging people in vulnerable communities to stay alert and move to safer areas when necessary.

The warning follows a seasonal forecast from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, which identified Ogun among the states expected to receive heavy rainfall. Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya said the second phase of the rainy season would begin in September, with rainfall in the state projected to average about 360 millimeters that month. Rainfall in inland areas is expected to decline from October into early November.

Oresanya said the first phase, from mid-March to July, brought intense rain and isolated flash floods but had comparatively limited effects. He attributed that outcome to public awareness campaigns, maintenance of rivers and drainage channels, and improvements in waste management. Officials focused on waterways including the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido.

The commissioner warned that prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could slow the Ogun River and cause temporary saturation of wetlands and floodplains. He specifically named Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute, Warewa and parts of Abeokuta among the areas requiring vigilance. The alert also covers coastal communities in Ogun Waterside, Ijebu East and Ipokia, as well as settlements along the Ilo and Iju river floodplains.

Fish farmers operating near rivers and floodplains were told to harvest their stocks quickly to reduce possible losses. Oresanya named Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami among the locations where farmers should act without delay, and called on government agencies, local authorities, emergency organizations and community leaders to intensify preparations.