CurrentReport Blog The Managing Director of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Deji Ashiru, has urged residents of flood-prone areas like Isheri to view the Oyan Dam as a critical flood prevention tool rather than the cause of their flooding issues. Speaking during a community meeting on Tuesday, Ashiru emphasized that without the dam’s flood control capabilities, areas like Isheri and parts of Abeokuta would face a high risk of severe flooding.
The recent floods have displaced residents across Isheri, Arepo, Lafenwa, Warewa, and neighboring communities along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. As heavy rains continue, Ogun State’s Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, has advised residents to relocate to higher ground. However, Dr. Ashiru clarified that the flooding is primarily due to 52 ungated tributaries feeding into the Ogun River, which cause water levels to rise downstream, rather than the controlled water release from Oyan Dam.
Ashiru pointed out that the Oyan and Ogun rivers are transboundary, flowing from Port Novo in the Benin Republic, and water levels often rise due to rainfall from outside Nigeria. He explained that to manage upstream flow and prevent dam overflow, the authority has been releasing 17.4 million cubic meters of water daily for the past two months.
“The reality is that without Oyan Dam, Isheri, situated on a flood plain, and parts of Abeokuta would be submerged,” Ashiru stated. “Residents should consider Oyan Dam a blessing, as it manages the water flow and reduces the risk of major flooding.” He proposed that smaller dams could be constructed to capture water from the 52 tributaries contributing to downstream flooding.
In response, some residents expressed frustration over the persistent flooding, with local homeowner Emmanuel Oluwayemi hinting at potential legal action if the issue is not adequately addressed. After extensive renovations costing N8 million following last year’s flood, Oluwayemi criticized the government for failing to provide a safe living environment.
Ashiru confirmed that the Federal Government will begin dredging the Ogun River next week to increase its capacity for managing rising water levels. He noted that the Senate has also issued a directive to find solutions to the area’s flood challenges, signaling continued government commitment to addressing this recurring issue.
