On Thursday, the Lagos State Government issued a warning to residents and property owners along the banks of the Ogun River to prepare for potential evacuations to higher ground. This alert was prompted by the Ogun Osun River Basin Development Authority’s decision to initiate a staggered release of water from the Oyan Dam. The government indicated its commitment to monitor the situation in collaboration with the authorities in Ogun State. Reports from PUNCH revealed that some residents of Isheri, located near the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, had already started evacuations as water levels began to rise in the Ogun River. This surge in water flow had resulted in overflow, reaching areas just a few meters from the riverbank.
During a media briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, highlighted the importance of understanding the dam’s operations, which are driven by real-time hydrological data, rainfall predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, and flood forecasts from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. He acknowledged the concerns of residents in surrounding communities, particularly those along riverside water channels that extend into Lagos State. The commissioner assured the public that the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority operates the dam while adhering to strict safety protocols aimed at preventing structural damage and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Wahab also addressed the misconception that flooding in the southern sections of the Ogun River was solely due to water released from the Oyan Dam. He explained that the flooding situation is complicated by a network of over 52 tributaries that converge and contribute to rising water levels. He emphasized that these tributaries, combined with rainfall-induced runoff, compound the risk of flooding in the mentioned communities. This understanding is essential for devising effective flood management strategies that address the various factors influencing water levels in the region.
In response to the flood threats, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority has initiated dredging operations along the Ogun River, particularly in areas downstream from Ikorodu to Isheri, which include Ajelogo, Owode-Elede, Ajegunle, and sections underneath the Itowolo Bridge. These measures aim to facilitate the free flow of water in anticipation of the water release, ensuring that future risks of flooding are minimized. The government emphasized its commitment to continuously monitor conditions while collaborating with relevant agencies and affected communities to respond to humanitarian needs, especially for vulnerable populations such as women, children, the elderly, and the disabled.
Moreover, Commissioner Wahab made a public appeal to the residents of Lagos to take an active role in preventing flooding through responsible waste management. He urged residents to refrain from dumping refuse in unauthorized areas, which contributes to blocked drainage and exacerbates flooding issues. The Commissioner encouraged residents to regularly clear drains in front of their homes to facilitate the smooth flow of stormwater and to support government efforts in flood risk management initiatives.
In summary, the warning issued by the Lagos State Government signifies a proactive approach to flood management in light of water release from Oyan Dam and the complexities of hydrological influences in the Ogun River region. By emphasizing community engagement and collaboration between government agencies, the state aims to mitigate flood risks and enhance residents’ preparedness for potential evacuation scenarios, ultimately fostering a safer living environment along the vulnerable banks of the Ogun River.
