The Ogun State Government has issued a flood alert to residents living in riverbank and wetland communities, warning of potential overflow from the Ogun River between October 20 and November 3, 2025.
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, the government warned that the controlled release of water from the Oyan Dam, coupled with heavy rainfall in northern Nigeria, could lead to rising water levels in downstream communities.
“The expected overflow is due to increased water flow into the Oyan Dam, caused by persistent rains in the northern region,” Oresanya said.
Areas at Risk
Communities likely to be affected include:
- Akute
- Alagbole
- Isheri
- Magboro
- Makogi
- Orimerunmu
- Iro
- Kajola
In Abeokuta, the alert covers areas such as Lafenwa, Enugada, Adedotun, Iberekodo, Akin-Olugbade, and Ago-Odo.
Precautionary Measures Advised
The commissioner advised residents in flood-prone zones to take urgent preventive measures to protect lives and property. Those living along the riverbanks were urged to avoid low-lying areas, while residents in wetlands were advised to relocate to higher ground or elevate their homes temporarily.
Oresanya also appealed to fish farmers in vulnerable areas to harvest their stock immediately to avoid losses.
Government Response
The state government has continued dredging operations and has opened more tributaries of the Ogun River to ease the impact of the overflow.
The commissioner noted that the Ogun-Osun River Basin Authority, which manages the Oyan Dam, has maintained a controlled release strategy throughout the year.
“At this period last year, over 17,000 million litres of water were released daily. This year, despite heavier rainfall, only 12,000 million litres per day have been released,” he stated.
He described the lower release volume as a cautious approach to managing the dam’s capacity and reducing flood risks.
No Cause for Panic
Oresanya assured residents that the current situation is under control and that water levels are expected to recede within 10 days.
He urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with local authorities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to mitigating the impact of climate change on the state’s waterways.
“Ogun State serves as a natural water outlet for much of northern Nigeria, and we are doing everything possible to manage this seasonal challenge,” he added.
