The Lagos State Government has called on residents living along the banks of the Ogun River to relocate to higher grounds due to the planned release of water from the Oyan Dam.
The warning comes as the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) commences the annual release of water to manage the dam’s levels.
Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, made the announcement on Thursday while addressing journalists.
Wahab explained that the water release is part of regular operations, guided by real-time hydrological data, rainfall forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, and flood outlook reports from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The commissioner stressed that the release is necessary to preserve the integrity of the Oyan Dam and ensure its socio-economic benefits to Lagos State are maintained.
“While rainfall in the Oyan river catchment area has been substantial, with 984.1 mm recorded in 2024, it is still lower than the 1,540.8 mm observed in 2023 and remains within safe operational levels,” Wahab noted.
He added that the current water release is being conducted in a controlled manner, with only two gates of the dam opened at 12 percent capacity each, resulting in a measured discharge of 208 m³/s.
Wahab assured that 62.1 percent of the dam’s flood control capacity remains intact, and there is no imminent threat of excess water release beyond safe limits.
Wahab acknowledged the challenges faced by communities along the riverbanks, particularly areas such as Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, Owode, Ajegunle, and Odo-Ogun.
He clarified, however, that flooding in these areas is not solely due to the Oyan Dam’s water release, as the downstream section of the Ogun River is influenced by over 52 tributaries that contribute to rising water levels.
In response to the situation, Wahab said that OORBDA has initiated dredging work downstream from the Ikorodu to Isheri axis of the Ogun River.
This project is aimed at deepening the river channel to increase its capacity to carry water, reducing the likelihood of flooding.
The commissioner also urged Lagos residents to support the government’s efforts by refraining from indiscriminate dumping of waste, blocking drains, and constructing buildings around drainage areas.
“I wish to appeal once again to our people to support our efforts by complementing the government through regular clearing of drains on their frontages,” Wahab stated.
