Ogun State Government Issues Fresh Flood Alert, Urges Residents in Risk Areas to Relocate

The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh warning about possible flooding as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season begins.

The government advised residents living in flood-prone communities to remain alert and move to safer areas when necessary.

The warning was issued following weather predictions by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which listed Ogun State among the states expected to experience heavy rainfall this year.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya, the government said the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from March to July, recorded heavy rainfall and some flash floods in parts of the state.

However, the Commissioner said the impact was relatively low because of measures taken by the state government, including public awareness campaigns, regular clearing and maintenance of rivers and drainage channels, and improved waste management.

According to him, the government has also paid attention to important waterways and rivers across the state, including the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams.

Oresanya said NiMet’s 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction shows that the second phase of the rainy season is expected to begin in September.

He said Ogun could record an average rainfall of about 360mm in September, with rainfall expected to reduce in inland areas from October into early November.

Despite the expected reduction later in the season, the Commissioner warned that some communities could still experience river and coastal flooding.

He explained that prolonged rainfall, possible controlled releases from Oyan Dam and tidal changes could affect the flow of the Ogun River and increase the risk of flooding.

The combined effect, he said, could cause wetlands and floodplains to become heavily saturated with water, putting communities in such areas at greater risk.

The government specifically advised residents in Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa to remain vigilant. Residents in some parts of Abeokuta were also advised to take necessary precautions and relocate to safer areas where required.

The warning also covers several coastal communities, including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.

Other areas listed include Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East Local Government Area, Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia Local Government Area, as well as communities located along the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju Rivers.

The Commissioner also warned fish farmers operating around floodplains and river channels to harvest their fish early to reduce the risk of losing their stocks to flooding.

He specifically mentioned fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, urging them and others in flood-prone areas to act quickly.

Oresanya called on government ministries and agencies, local governments, emergency response organisations, traditional and community leaders, and other stakeholders to increase their flood-prevention and response efforts.

He urged authorities to continue monitoring areas at risk of flooding and ensure that drainage channels remain open and free from waste and other obstructions.

Community leaders were also encouraged to increase awareness among residents and share flood warnings promptly.

The Commissioner stressed that early information and quick action could help prevent loss of lives and reduce damage to homes, businesses and property.

He said the Ogun State Government would continue to monitor weather and water conditions in partnership with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant agencies.

Oresanya assured residents that the government would continue taking steps to reduce the impact of flooding across the state.

He appealed to residents to take the warning seriously and pay attention to further updates from the government and emergency response agencies.