July 11, 2025

Ogun Government Urges Calm as Flash Floods Hit Several Towns

Ogun Government Urges Calm as Flash Floods Hit Several Towns

The Ogun State Government has appealed to residents across the state to remain calm in the wake of flash floods being experienced in several communities following recent heavy rainfall. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, described the recurring flash floods as a natural consequence of intense downpours, particularly during the peak of the rainy season. He noted that such flooding, though concerning, is often predictable and can be managed effectively if residents remain calm and adhere to established safety guidelines.

 

Mr. Oresanya stressed that the government’s call for calm is aimed at preventing panic, calming frayed nerves, and ensuring that people take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families, and their property. He advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas during rainstorms, clear blocked drains around their homes, and promptly report any environmental hazards to the appropriate authorities. The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to mitigating the impact of seasonal flooding through continuous monitoring, public sensitization, and timely intervention measures.

 

He reminded them of the need to stay indoors when raining or stay in a safe place when in transit.

 

Motorists and commuters are also advised to avoid the temptation to cross flood paths until the flood recedes, which is usually within one to two hours.

 

“Households and community leaders are equally advised to ensure that all constrictions along drainage channels and canals are removed,” he said.

 

The Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, further cautioned residents of Ogun State to prepare for more intense and sustained rainfall over the next three weeks, noting that this period represents the first major peak of the annual rainy season. He explained that the state is likely to experience several episodes of torrential downpours capable of triggering flash floods, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. In light of this, he advised residents to remain vigilant and to take weather forecasts seriously, urging them to avoid risky areas during heavy rains and to take precautionary measures to safeguard their homes and surroundings. Oresanya emphasized the importance of community responsiveness and proactive engagement, urging members of the public to promptly report emergencies or flood-related incidents to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) or to the designated Flood Emergency Response Teams operating in their local government areas.

 

To strengthen grassroots preparedness, the Commissioner announced that Community Development Associations (CDAs) across the state have been placed on high alert. These local bodies, he said, have been equipped and tasked to act as first responders during emergencies, playing a critical role in mobilizing community efforts for early warning dissemination, evacuation, and immediate support in flood-prone areas. He noted that this localized approach to disaster management is essential to ensuring rapid response and minimizing the potential loss of lives and property, especially as the state navigates the peak of the rainy season.

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