OGUN GOVT WARNS RESIDENTS OF IMPENDING OGUN RIVER OVERFLOW

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert, urging residents of riverbank and wetland communities to prepare for the expected overflow of Ogun River between October 20 and November 3, 2025.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, the government identified areas at risk, including Akute, Alagbole, Isheri, Magboro, Makogi, Orimerunmu, Iro, Kajola, and parts of Abeokuta such as Lafenwa, Enugada, Adedotun, Iberekodo, Akin-Olugbade, and Ago-Odo.

According to Oresanya, the anticipated rise in water levels is due to a controlled release from Oyan Dam following increased rainfall from the northern part of the country. The situation is expected to be further compounded by a rise in tidal levels.

“The increased water flow into the dam will inevitably force a controlled release, which will impact communities along the riverbanks,” the commissioner explained. He advised residents to exercise caution, relocate to higher grounds where necessary, and avoid unnecessary movement around the river during the period.

As part of its flood mitigation strategy, the state government has dredged and opened more tributaries of the river to reduce the pressure of the overflow on residents. It is also working closely with Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, owners of the dam, to regulate water discharge.

Oresanya noted that last year’s water release volume stood at over 17,000 million litres per day, compared to this year’s 12,000 million litres per day, showing improved control efforts.

He, however, cautioned that while the government has taken preventive measures, the impact of climate change and the state’s coastal position make complete prevention impossible. “Residents should not panic. The tide will naturally reduce within 10 days,” he assured.

The commissioner also advised fish farmers in the affected areas to harvest their fish early to prevent losses.

The government’s alert is the third this year, reflecting its ongoing efforts to protect lives and property from flood risks across the state.