Flood takes over Lagos, Ogun communities

Friday’s torrential rainfall in various parts of Lagos and Ogun States, has led to flood incidents in the two states.

Residents were forced to stay indoors or seek makeshift shelters while in transit as various streets were covered in floodwater. The heavy rain also slowed the free flow of traffic, creating gridlocks in many parts of the Lagos metropolis.

Some of the affected areas are Marina, Lekki, Agege, Iju Road, Victoria Island, Oshodi, Ilupeju, Ogudu, Ketu and Magboro among other parts of the states.

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On the Long Bridge axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the traffic was heavy inbound Lagos. Similarly, many commuters around the Magboro axis of Ogun state were stranded while some vehicles got stuck in the flood.

Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged residents of Lagos State to observe safety precautions during downpours.

Acting Assistant Zonal Coordinator, NEMA Southwest Zonal Office, Ibrahim Farinloye, said in a statement issued on Friday, ”Once the rainwater gets to half of the wheels, it sweeps off your vehicle, kindly park and move on to higher ground for safety.

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“The rainwater must have risen above our ankles, once it happens like this; the flood has the capacity to carry you off.”

The NEMA boss warned people living in buildings with signs of danger to report to the appropriate agencies for assistance.

“Residents of Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, Alimosho, Amuwo Odofin, Ikeja, Ojo, Kosofe, Apapa, Epe, Oshodi-Isolo, Shomolu, Surulere and Ajeromi /Ifelodun LGAs are advised to be more careful when it rains.”

The 2021 Annual Flood Outlook has predicted more flooding to be experienced in the 13 local government areas listed above.