OGSEMA has begun community outreach across flood-prone areas, urging residents to stay alert and act responsibly.
Officials say blocked drains, poor waste disposal, and illegal structures worsen the impact of heavy rainfall.
The Ogun State Government has launched a statewide sensitization campaign to tackle the threat of flooding following recent warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
According to a statement released on Sunday, the Ogun State Emergency Management Agency (OGSEMA) began its outreach efforts across several communities, including Kuto, Amolasho, and Gbangba in the Abeokuta South Local Government Area.
Speaking during one of the awareness visits, OGSEMA’s Acting Director, Mr. Soji Durojaye, urged residents especially those in flood-prone area to remain alert as rainfall intensifies. He noted that the government is prepared to protect lives and property but called on citizens to take responsibility for their environment.
“Many flooding incidents are the result of careless human activities like dumping waste in drains and building structures on waterways,” Durojaye explained. “We need community leaders and residents to help spread the message of environmental responsibility.”
He advised residents in high-risk areas to consider relocating temporarily if conditions worsen and emphasized the importance of clearing blocked drains and planting trees to prevent erosion.
Durojaye noted that poor waste disposal and neglect of drainage systems often worsen the impact of rainfall. “Flooding isn’t only about the rain it’s about how we manage our environment. Every household has a role to play in reducing the risks,” he said.
He also assured the public that the state government had placed emergency response teams on standby across all 20 Local Government Areas to ensure quick intervention during any flood-related incident. Residents were urged to call the emergency hotline 112 to report early signs of flooding or erosion.
Meanwhile, community members welcomed the initiative. Mrs. Adetutu Mustapha, a trader at Kuto, and Mr. Samuel Adegboyega, a resident of Amolasho, both expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts and pledged to follow the safety guidelines provided.
