Ogun Govt Moves Against Flood, Begins Awareness Campaign

Ogun State Government has commenced a state wide sensitization of residents as part of measures being taken to mitigate against the likely devastating effects of flooding as recently predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) which listed  Ogun among some of the States in Nigeria to experience such natural disaster 

The Ogun State Emergency Management Agency (OGSEMA) during the week took its campaign to  Kuto, Amolasho, Gbangba and other locations in Abeokuta South Local Government Area to enlighten the general public on how to avert flooding.

Acting Director, OGSEMA, Mr. Soji Durojaye during the sensitization,  urged residents to take proactive measures against flooding as the rainy season had intensified, saying flood-prone communities in the State should be on alert.

Durojaye emphasised that government was committed to safeguarding lives and property, but residents must also play their part by adhering strictly to safety guidelines.

He noted that indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainage channels and illegal construction on waterways remain major causes of flooding, while appealing to community leaders to help spread the message of environmental responsibility.

The Director noted that NIMET had predicted heavy rainfall for the year, which could lead to flash floods in some areas. He therefore advised residents, especially those living in flood-prone areas to be vigilant and to consider relocating temporarily if the need arises.

Mr. Durojaye also stressed the need for clearing blocked drainage and planting trees to reduce soil erosion. He explained that flooding is not only caused by excessive rainfall but also by poor environmental practices. “If every household ensure proper waste disposal and clear their surroundings, the impact of flooding will be greatly reduced.’’

While assuring residents of the government’s readiness to respond swiftly to emergencies, the OGSEMA Director disclosed that emergency response teams had been placed on alert across the 20 Local Government Areas of the State, encouraging residents to report any early signs of flooding or erosion to the agency through its dedicated emergency hotline, 111.

In their separate interviews, a trader at Kuto, Mrs. Adetutu Mustapha and a resident of Amolasho, Mr. Samuel Adegboyega, appreciated the initiative and promised to adhere to the warnings.