Following warnings from the Federal Ministry of Environment predicting heavy rainfall in parts of the country, the Osun State Government has outlined steps being taken to mitigate potential flooding following an alert issued by federal authorities.
According to the Ministry, the anticipated downpour is expected between April 13 and April 17, raising concerns over possible flooding in vulnerable areas.
Communities identified as at risk in Osun include Ilesa, Iragbiji, Osogbo and Otan Ayegbaju.
Osun State Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Mayowa Adejoorin, in a statement in Tuesday said proactive measures had already been activated.
He explained that drainage systems across the state are undergoing routine desilting to ensure free flow of water adding that rivers and waterways are also being dredged ahead of the rainy season.
Adejoorin said, “The drainages are being desilted as constantly as necessary to prevent any blockage that could lead to flooding.
“The aim is to remove waste and debris that may obstruct water channels and to allow free flow.”
The commissioner disclosed that public awareness campaigns have been intensified to discourage improper waste disposal and warned residents against dumping refuse in drainage channels, noting that such practices contribute significantly to flooding.
“Awareness campaigns are ongoing to caution people against dumping refuse along waterways and channels,” Adejoorin said.
He noted that enforcement measures, including fines and possible prosecution, are in place to ensure compliance.
The commissioner who revealed that the state had recorded minimal flooding incidents in recent years attributed this to sustained environmental management efforts and government support for sanitation initiatives.
Adejoorin said, “In the past three years, we have not experienced serious flooding due to consistent intervention and adequate funding.”
Residents have been urged to cooperate with authorities and adhere to environmental guidelines during the rainy season.
The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through preventive strategies.
He added that monitoring teams have been deployed to assess high-risk areas and respond promptly to emerging threats.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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