Ogun State flood alert warns riverbank communities of likely flooding from Oyan Dam release. Residents urged to relocate or take safety measures

Ogun State flood alert has been issued again—its third this year—as authorities warn of imminent flooding between 20 October and 3 November.

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The alert follows the controlled release of water from the Oyan Dam, now under pressure from heavy upstream rainfall.

In a statement on Sunday, Commissioner for Environment Mr Ola Oresanya urged residents in low-lying and riverbank communities to take immediate precautions.

Communities including Akute, Alagbole, Isheri, Magboro, Makogi, and parts of Abeokuta have been specifically identified as high-risk areas.

“Residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid loss of lives and property,” Oresanya said, warning that the Ogun River is likely to overflow due to increased dam discharge and rising tidal levels.

The government says it is not taking the situation lightly. In collaboration with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, dredging and water channel opening have continued throughout the year to minimise flood risks.

Oresanya highlighted that this year’s dam release—12,000 million litres per day—is considerably lower than last year’s 17,000 million litres, crediting improved flood management strategies.

Nonetheless, he acknowledged that natural forces remain unpredictable, especially for coastal states like Ogun which serve as a water outlet from Nigeria’s northern regions into the lagoon.

The commissioner advised vulnerable residents to relocate or elevate their homes temporarily. Fish farmers in the affected zones were urged to harvest their stock immediately to avoid significant losses.

“While the government is doing all it can, we urge the public to stay vigilant and follow official guidance. The situation remains under control, and we expect water levels to recede within ten days after the dam release concludes,” Oresanya assured.

He also appealed for calm and cooperation across affected areas, emphasising that proactive action is the best defence.

As Nigeria continues to feel the intensifying effects of climate change, states like Ogun bear the brunt.

The combination of high rainfall, dam overflow, and tidal surges has become a recurrent seasonal challenge.