Ogun State warns of flooding, advises residents to move to safety

The Ogun State Government has issued a new flood alert as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season approaches. They are advising people in vulnerable areas to stay alert and move to safer places if needed.

This warning comes after the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasted that Ogun will see heavy rainfall this year.

In a statement from the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya, the state government noted that the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from mid-March to July, brought heavy rain and some flash floods in certain areas. However, the impact was relatively low.

Oresanya said the limited damage was due to the proactive steps taken by the government. These included public awareness campaigns, regular maintenance of rivers, streams, and drainage systems, and better waste management services.

They have focused on key river channels and waterways, such as Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal, and Ijamido rivers and streams.

According to him, NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction shows that the second phase of the 2026 rainy season will start in September. The state is expected to have intense rainfall of around 360mm in that month.

Oresanya added that rain in the inland areas of the state should decrease from October into early November.

But he warned that this time could bring river and coastal flooding to some regions in the state. This could be due to prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam, and tidal changes that may slow down the flow of the Ogun River.

He explained that these factors could lead to waterlogging in wetlands and floodplains, raising the risk of flooding for vulnerable communities.

Oresanya advised residents living in Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute, and Warewa. He also mentioned parts of Abeokuta should stay alert and consider moving to safer areas.

The warning extends to coastal communities like Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara, and Igele in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. It also includes Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East Local Government Area, Tungeji Island, Agosasa in Ipokia Local Government Area, and places near the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju Rivers.

The Commissioner urged fish farmers in flood-prone areas and riverbanks to harvest their fish quickly to avoid losses from flooding.

He specifically mentioned fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase, and Ayegbami, and advised them to act fast based on the warning.

Oresanya called on relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Authorities, emergency response teams, community leaders, and others to step up flood-response efforts. They should keep an eye on vulnerable areas and ensure drainage channels are clear.

He also encouraged community leaders to boost public awareness efforts in their areas. He noted that sharing timely information and taking early actions are key to reducing the effects of possible flooding.

The Commissioner said the state government will keep watch on weather forecasts and hydrological conditions together with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, and other groups.

He assured residents that the government is committed to reducing the negative effects of flooding in the state. He thanked residents for their cooperation in measures that helped limit the impact during the first phase of the rainy season.

Oresanya urged residents to take this advisory seriously and stay tuned for further updates from the government and emergency agencies.