The Ogun State Government on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, issued a fresh Ogun flood alert to residents across vulnerable communities, urging people in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary as the second phase of the rainy season begins.
The warning was issued by the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, following the Seasonal Climate Prediction of the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, NiMet, which identified Ogun among states expected to experience heavy rainfall.
Also read: NiMet warns of 3-day thunderstorms across Nigeria
According to Oresanya, Ogun is projected to record an average rainfall of about 360mm in September, raising concerns over possible river and coastal flooding in areas already considered vulnerable.
The commissioner said the first phase of the 2026 rainy season, which ran from mid-March to July, brought intense rainfall and isolated flash floods to some parts of the state. However, the overall impact remained relatively limited.
Oresanya attributed the situation partly to preventive measures adopted by the state government, including public awareness campaigns, maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, as well as improvements in waste management.
Particular attention, he said, had been given to major waterways such as the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams.
The latest warning comes as the second phase of the rainy season is expected to commence in September.
While rainfall in inland parts of Ogun is forecast to decline from October into early November, Oresanya said the flood risk would not disappear immediately.
He explained that prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could combine to slow the flow of the Ogun River.
The resulting pressure on wetlands and floodplains could create temporary oversaturation and increase the likelihood of flooding in communities located close to waterways.
“This 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,” Oresanya said.
Among the communities specifically advised to remain alert are Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, alongside parts of Abeokuta.
The advisory also extends to coastal communities including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East, and Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia.
Communities located along the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju Rivers have also been urged to take precautionary measures.
For residents in these locations, the government’s advice is not limited to monitoring water levels.
People facing immediate flood risks are being encouraged to leave for safer locations before conditions deteriorate.
The commissioner also drew attention to the economic impact flooding could have on farmers, particularly those whose businesses depend on vulnerable waterways.
Fish farmers operating around floodplains and river corridors were advised to harvest their stocks promptly to reduce potential losses.
Oresanya specifically mentioned Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami among the areas where fish farmers should act quickly.
The government has also called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies, local government authorities, emergency response organisations and community leaders to strengthen flood preparedness and response measures.
Community leaders were urged to intensify public awareness campaigns and ensure that residents receive timely information about changing conditions.
The state government said it would continue monitoring weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant agencies.
Ogun has faced recurring flood concerns in previous rainy seasons, particularly around communities adjoining major rivers, wetlands and coastal areas.
In September 2025, the state government similarly advised residents around the Ogun, Ilo, Iju, Owa and Yemule Rivers and coastal communities to relocate temporarily because of anticipated flooding risks.
The latest Ogun flood alert therefore places renewed emphasis on early action rather than waiting until floodwaters have already entered homes and businesses.
With the state expecting substantial rainfall in September, authorities are urging residents to take warnings seriously, keep drainage routes clear and follow further guidance from government and emergency agencies.
Also read: NiMet warns of 3-day thunderstorms across Nigeria
For communities already living with the uncertainty of seasonal flooding, the message is straightforward: early preparation and timely relocation could make a critical difference.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
