The Lagos State Government has issued a warning to residents and property owners along the Ogun River to prepare for relocation as water is released from the Oyan Dam. The staggered water release, managed by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA), has raised concerns about potential flooding in surrounding areas.
On Thursday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, addressed the media in Alausa, Ikeja, stressing the importance of residents moving to higher ground. He explained that the dam’s operations, carried out annually, are based on real-time hydrological data and predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency.
Wahab noted that while water is being released from the Oyan Dam, other contributing factors, including rain and tributaries feeding into the Ogun River, are increasing flood risks in downstream communities.
“We recognize the challenges faced by residents in affected areas such as Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, Owode, Ajegunle, and Odo-Ogun. However, the flooding is not solely due to the dam release,” Wahab said. “The downstream section of the Ogun River is influenced by over 52 tributaries, which, combined with rainfall, significantly raise water levels.”
Residents in some communities, particularly in Isheri along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, have already begun evacuating their homes following rising water levels. On Saturday, they noticed a gradual increase in the current of the Ogun River, with water overflowing onto nearby areas.
The Lagos State government is collaborating with Ogun State authorities to monitor the situation closely. In response to the heightened flood risks, OORBDA has commenced dredging operations along sections of the Ogun River from Ikorodu to Isheri. This effort aims to improve water flow and reduce the impact of the water release.
Wahab emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and cooperation with relevant agencies to mitigate the impact on vulnerable groups, such as women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
He also called on residents to assist flood prevention efforts by maintaining drainage systems and avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse into canals and waterways. “Lagosians must help ensure the free flow of stormwater by regularly clearing drains and stopping the dumping of waste in unauthorized places,” Wahab urged.
As part of ongoing flood management efforts, the Lagos State Government has assured the public that it will remain vigilant and take necessary steps to protect lives and property.
