As Flood Risk Rises, Ogun Tells Residents to Get Out

Ogun State government warns of intense September rainfall averaging 360mm, advising residents in Isheri, Arepo, Magboro, Akute, Warewa and parts of Abeokuta to relocate to safer locations as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season begins.

A Season of Caution

The Ogun State government has issued a fresh flood alert ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, advising residents in vulnerable communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary.

The warning followed a forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) , which identified Ogun among the states expected to experience heavy rainfall during the year.

In a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, the government said the first phase of the rainy season, which ran from mid-March to July, witnessed intense rainfall and isolated flash floods in some parts of the state, but with comparatively minimal impact.

A Temporary Calm

Oresanya attributed the modest impact to the proactive measures adopted by the government, including sustained public awareness and education, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, as well as improvements in waste management services.

Particular attention had been given to major river channels and waterways, including Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, among others.

The Second Phase: A Greater Threat

According to Oresanya, NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction indicates that the second phase of the 2026 rainy season is expected to commence in September, with the state projected to experience intense rainfall averaging about 360mm during the month.

He added that rainfall in inland parts of the state was expected to decline from October into early November.

The Commissioner, however, warned that the 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, which could impede the flow velocity of the Ogun River.

He explained that the combined effect could result in temporary oversaturation of wetlands and floodplains, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable communities.

Vulnerable Communities Identified

ValidViewNetwork gathered that Oresanya advised residents in the following communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary:

Ogun River Corridor Communities:

· Isheri

· Arepo

· Mawere

· Magboro

· Akute

· Warewa·

Parts of AbeokutaCoastal Communities (Ogun Waterside LGA):

· Makun-Omi

· Iwopin

· Oni

· Ifaara

· Igele

Other Vulnerable Areas:

· Ebute-Imobi (Ijebu East LGA)

· Tungeji Island (Ipokia LGA)

· Agosasa (Ipokia LGA)

· Communities along the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju Rivers

A Warning for Fish Farmers

The Commissioner also urged fish farmers operating within floodplains and river corridors to harvest their stocks promptly to minimise potential losses arising from flooding.

He specifically advised fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, as well as those in other vulnerable communities, to heed the warning without delay.

A Call to Action

Oresanya called on relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Authorities, emergency response organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders to intensify flood-response activities, maintain regular monitoring of vulnerable locations and ensure that drainage channels remain free of obstructions.

He also urged community leaders to strengthen public awareness campaigns in their respective communities, noting that timely information and early action remained critical to minimising the impact of potential flooding.

Collaboration and Monitoring

The Commissioner said the state government would continue to monitor weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) , the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant stakeholders.

He assured residents that the government would sustain its efforts to minimise the adverse impact of flooding across the state.

A History of Proactive Measures

ValidViewNetwork notes that the Ogun State government has a history of issuing early warnings ahead of the rainy season.

In October 2024, the government advised residents of flooded areas to relocate to higher ground, citing the Ogun River overflow.

In April 2024, the government warned residents living in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer locations ahead of looming flood disaster.

The government has also taken more drastic measures, vowing to demolish buildings on waterways in 2023 as part of efforts to find lasting solutions to the perennial flooding that ravaged Ogun and Lagos States.

The National Context

ValidViewNetwork gathered that the Ogun flood alert is part of a broader national warning.

In May 2026, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) issued a fresh flood alert, listing 15 Local Government Areas in Lagos and 19 in Ogun as moderate flood-risk zones for the current rainy season.

The Federal Government has also expanded and dredged the Ogun River Basin as part of de-flooding efforts, insisting that property owners and residents of low-lying areas must relocate to high grounds as water is systemically released.

What This Means for Residents

The warning is clear: the second phase of the 2026 rainy season poses a significant flood risk to communities along the Ogun River and its tributaries, as well as coastal areas.

The combination of intense rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could overwhelm existing drainage systems and lead to flooding.

Residents in the affected communities are advised to:

1. Relocate to safer locations where necessary

2. Remain vigilant and monitor weather updates

3. Clear drainage channels around their homes

4. Avoid building on floodplains and waterways

5. Store valuables in elevated areas

6. Heed warnings from government and emergency agencies

Fish farmers are urged to harvest their stocks promptly to avoid losses.

A Shared Responsibility

The Ogun State Government has demonstrated a commitment to proactive flood management.

However, the success of these measures depends on the cooperation of residents, community leaders and other stakeholders.

“Timely information and early action remained critical to minimising the impact of potential flooding,” Oresanya said.

As the rains intensify, the message from the government is clear: prepare now, or risk being caught unprepared.