The Osun State Government has issued a strong warning to residents of Iragbiji and Otan-Ayegbaju communities over possible flooding due to expected heavy rains.
The alert follows a forecast from the Federal Ministry of Environment’s Department of Erosion, Flood, and Coastal Zone Management, predicting heavy rainfall from July 31 to August 4, 2025.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Emergency Management, Emiola Fakeye, said the government is taking proactive steps but residents must cooperate.
“The safety of our people remains a top priority for Governor Adeleke. He is deeply concerned about the flood risk and wants to ensure no lives are lost,” Fakeye said.
She noted that the government has already started clearing blocked rivers and waterways to help water flow freely and reduce flood damage.
“Residents in flood-prone areas should either evacuate temporarily or take safety measures. Prevention is better than cure,” she warned.
Fakeye also advised communities to stay informed and report any emergency situations promptly.
The General Manager of the Osun State Emergency Management Agency (OSEMA), *Abiola Oni*, also spoke during the briefing. He warned against throwing refuse into gutters and urged the public to help keep the drainages clear.
“If we block the drains, the water will have no place to go,” Oni said, noting that flooding during the rainy season has been a regular problem in the area.
He added that emergency response teams are on standby to respond quickly if the situation worsens.
For help or more information, residents can contact the OSEMA office at Elizabeth Road, Abere.
