Ogun warns residents of rising flood risk as heavy rains return in September

The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert to residents across vulnerable communities as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season approaches, urging those living in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary.

The warning followed the seasonal climate forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which listed Ogun among states expected to experience significant rainfall during the year.

In a statement, Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, said the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from mid-March to July, recorded intense rainfall and isolated flash floods in parts of the state, although the overall impact was relatively limited.

He attributed the situation to government interventions, including sustained public awareness, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, and improved waste management.

Oresanya said the government had paid particular attention to major waterways, including 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 indicates that the second phase of the rainy season is expected to begin in September, with Ogun projected to record rainfall averaging about 360mm during the month.

He added that rainfall in the inland areas of the state was expected to gradually decline from October into early November.

The Commissioner, however, warned that the period could trigger riverine and coastal flooding due to prolonged rainfall, controlled water releases from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations that could slow the flow of the Ogun River.

He said the combined effects could temporarily saturate wetlands and floodplains, increasing the risk of flooding in communities located in vulnerable areas.

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Oresanya specifically urged residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as parts of Abeokuta, to exercise caution and relocate to safer areas where necessary.

The warning also covers coastal communities including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area; Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East; Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia; and settlements along the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju rivers.

The Commissioner also advised fish farmers operating around floodplains and river corridors to harvest their stocks promptly to reduce potential losses.

He specifically mentioned fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, urging them to take precautionary measures immediately.

Oresanya called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies, local government authorities, emergency response organisations and community leaders to intensify flood monitoring and response measures.

He urged authorities and community leaders to ensure drainage channels remain free of refuse and other obstructions while strengthening public awareness campaigns in vulnerable communities.

The Commissioner said the state would continue monitoring weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant stakeholders.

He appealed to residents to take the warning seriously and remain alert to further updates from the government and emergency management agencies.