The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh warning to residents in flood-prone communities as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season begins, urging those at risk to remain alert and move to safer areas when necessary.
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, gave the warning in a statement on Tuesday, citing the Nigeria Meteorological Agency’s forecast of increased rainfall across the state.
Oresanya said the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from March to July, brought heavy rainfall and some flash floods but recorded relatively limited damage.
He attributed the situation to measures implemented by the state government, including public sensitisation, regular clearing and maintenance of waterways and drainage systems, and improved waste management.
The commissioner said government agencies had paid particular attention to major waterways, including the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams.
According to him, the seasonal climate forecast indicates that the second phase of the rainy season will begin in September, with Ogun expected to record about 360mm of rainfall during the month.
He added that rainfall in the inland areas of the state was expected to reduce from October and continue declining into early November.
However, Oresanya warned that the anticipated rainfall could increase the risk of river and coastal flooding in some communities.
He said, “The period could bring river and coastal flooding to some parts of the state due to prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations, which could impede the flow velocity of the Ogun River.”
He explained that the combination of these factors could temporarily saturate wetlands and floodplains, thereby increasing the likelihood of flooding.
The commissioner specifically advised residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as vulnerable areas of Abeokuta, to remain vigilant and relocate if conditions became unsafe.
He also extended the warning to coastal communities such as Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside; Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East; Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia; and communities situated along the Ilo and Iju River floodplains.
Oresanya also advised fish farmers operating around floodplains and river corridors to harvest their fish stocks early to avoid possible losses.
He particularly mentioned fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, among other vulnerable locations.
The commissioner called on government ministries and agencies, local authorities, emergency responders, traditional and community leaders to strengthen flood preparedness and regularly monitor areas considered vulnerable.
He also urged residents and community leaders to keep drainage channels free of refuse and other obstructions while intensifying public awareness about flood risks.
According to Oresanya, early warnings and prompt action remain essential to reducing the impact of flooding.
He said the government would continue monitoring weather and hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant agencies, including NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency and the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority.
Oresanya assured residents that the state government would sustain efforts to reduce flood-related risks and urged residents to take the latest advisory seriously.
He also appealed to the public to pay attention to further updates from the government and emergency management authorities.
