Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, emphasized that dredging and channelizing the Ogun river would be crucial in addressing the recurrent flooding in Isheri and its surroundings. He mentioned that water released from Cameroon also contributed to the issue.
The Governor identified the Oyan Dam, overseen by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, as a factor in the problem. While acknowledging that dams serve essential purposes like water supply and flood control, he noted that the Oyan Dam’s role in the flooding was unintentional.
Abiodun further highlighted the necessity for proper channelization of the Ogun River, emphasizing the need for desilting. He explained that the river flows into the Lagoon, and improper channeling leads to overflow during heavy rainfall.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
He described this year’s flooding in the Isheri area as the most severe in recent memory, impacting both commercial and social activities. The Governor mentioned that the area had been allocated for development over the years, making it impractical to embark on a demolition exercise.
Abiodun also pointed out that the flooding is not confined to a localized issue, as the state also deals with water released from Cameroon. He stressed the urgency of engaging a consultant to conduct a thorough study and devise a comprehensive plan for a permanent and sustainable solution.
The Governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the intervention programs aimed at alleviating the impact of subsidy removal and those meant for the state. He pledged to personally review the state’s Social Register to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
In addition, Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, mentioned that the federal government is considering the construction of buffer dams to control flooding in communities adjacent to the Ogun River.