The Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning to residents of coastline and low-lying communities to relocate immediately to safer locations as heavy flooding is expected between late September and mid-October.
The alert was made public on Sunday through the 2025 Ogun State Midterm Flood Alert, signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya. The advisory comes in response to expected heavy rainfall and overflow from major rivers, especially from the northern part of the country and neighboring countries like the Republic of Benin.
According to Oresanya, the second phase of annual flooding, which typically occurs between September and November, is expected to hit hard this year. September will witness the highest rainfall — estimated at 204 millimetres — followed by October with 190 millimetres. Though rainfall will reduce in November to about 93 millimetres, the damage would already have been done by then, the commissioner warned.
The Ogun State Government listed several communities that are likely to be affected. These include Ilo, Iju, Owa, Yemule, Isheri, Warewa, Akute, Ayetoro, Itele, Iju Makun, Oni, Iwopin, Igele, Ifaara (Ogun Waterside), Ebute-Imobi (Ijebu East), Tungeji Island, and Agosasa in Ipokia Local Government Area.
These areas lie close to rivers, streams, or coastal belts, making them highly vulnerable to flooding and water level rise. Some of these communities also experience overflow from the Oyan Dam and the Ogun-Osun River Basin, which will worsen the situation if water is released during this period.
In his statement, Oresanya assured residents that the state government is fully prepared to handle emergencies. The Ogun State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is said to be on red alert and ready to provide assistance where needed. Temporary emergency camps are already in place to house displaced persons.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and will respond immediately should evacuation become necessary,” Oresanya said.
He also mentioned that the Ministry of Environment is working hand-in-hand with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority to manage the release of water from the Oyan Dam, in order to reduce the potential impact of flooding.
One of the key health concerns during flooding is the contamination of water sources. The commissioner advised residents in the listed areas to stop using their boreholes and well water during this period, as they are likely to be polluted by floodwaters and tidal changes.
“This is a serious health hazard. We are urging all residents to take this advice seriously to prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases,” Oresanya added.
Beyond the general population, the government also issued a special advisory to fish farmers operating in flood-prone areas such as Eriwe, Yemule, Ijebu Ode, Ilase, and Ayegbami in Yewa area. Farmers were strongly urged to harvest their fish ahead of time to avoid losing them to the floods.
“These areas fall within the state’s flood plains and will be among the first to be affected. Fish farmers must act fast to avoid total loss of investment,” the commissioner said.
Flooding has become an annual nightmare in many parts of Nigeria, especially in states like Ogun, which lies between Lagos and the Republic of Benin. The coastal and riverine nature of parts of the state makes it particularly vulnerable.
Last year, several communities were submerged during the September-October period, causing destruction of property and temporary displacement of residents. In 2022, flooding led to major road closures, school shutdowns, and emergency evacuations in Ogun Waterside and parts of Ijebu East.
This year, the state is trying to stay ahead of the problem by issuing early warnings and preparing evacuation plans well in advance.
The government concluded by calling on traditional rulers, community leaders, and local government officials in the affected areas to help sensitise the people and encourage timely relocation.
“Flooding is not new to us, but we can reduce its impact by acting fast and working together,” Oresanya said.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates from the Ministry of Environment and SEMA, and to report early signs of flooding or blocked drainages for prompt response.
