The Lagos and Ogun state governments have warned residents living in flood-prone areas, especially those near riverbanks, to temporarily relocate or prepare for possible flooding due to the planned release of water from the Oyan dam.
The release, managed by the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA), is an annual process to regulate dam levels during the rainy season.
Last year, flooding caused by water release from the dam affected residents of Isheri Riverview Estate and surrounding areas.
To prevent a similar situation, both state governments have advised communities in low-lying areas to take precautions, including moving to safer locations, as the release could cause rivers to overflow and result in severe flooding.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed that advocacy efforts were underway, urging people in vulnerable areas like Ajilete and Owode-Onirin to relocate.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, noted that the dam’s water release volume would be increased to create more reservoir space.
However, OORBDA assured the public that the release would not cause flooding, and the dam has undergone regular maintenance to prevent any failures.
