Urges residents in vulnerable areas to relocate

Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, advising residents in vulnerable communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary.

The warning, in a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, yesterday, followed a forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) identifying Ogun State among others expected to experience heavy rainfall during the year.

Oresanya said the first phase of the rainy season, which ran from mid-March to July, witnessed intense rainfall and isolated flash floods in some parts of the state, but with comparatively minimal impact, attributing the modest impact to the proactive measures adopted by the government.

The measures, he said, included sustained public awareness and education, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, as well as improvements in waste management services.0

He said that particular attention had been given to major river channels and waterways, including Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, among others.

According to him, NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction indicates that the second phase of the 2026 rainy season is expected to commence in September, with the state projected to experience intense rainfall averaging about 360mm during the month.

Oresanya, therefore, advised residents in Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as parts of Abeokuta, to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary.

He, however, called on relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local councils, emergency response organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders to intensify flood-response activities, maintain regular monitoring of vulnerable locations and ensure that drainage channels remain free of obstructions.

He also urged community leaders to strengthen public awareness campaigns in their respective communities, noting that timely information and early action remained critical to minimising the impact of potential flooding.