The Ogun State government has pledged to take decisive action to combat recurring flooding in Ogun and Lagos States, which has caused severe distress to residents.

This was revealed in an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected flooding communities on Wednesday, by a federal government delegation led by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Minister of the Environment, Dr. ‘Kunle Salako, and Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of sympathy to the affected residents.

The Governor assured the residents of Isheri community, Ifo Local Government Area, that the state government would demolish any buildings and structures encroaching on waterways to ensure a free flow of water into the Lagoon.

This measure is part of a broader effort to prevent future flooding in the area.

The governor revealed that the state government would soon begin re-channelization of the drainages in the community as a part of measures to find a lasting solution to the flooding issue.

He urged residents to be patient and cooperate with both the state and federal government to achieve “lasting and sustainable solutions.”

The governor appreciated the swift response of President Tinubu to the state government’s plea to address the flooding problem.

He emphasized that with a well-designed drainage master plan and proper river channelization, the region could effectively manage excess water flow, safeguarding residents from the adverse effects of flooding.

Abiodun also stated that any structures built in drainage channels would be demolished to ensure the unobstructed flow of water.

Salako, emphasized the importance of a comprehensive study of the flooding issue, allowing the government to find permanent solutions.

He also encouraged residents to act responsibly by not constructing buildings on floodplains, clearing drainage systems, and properly disposing of waste.

Salako announced that federal agencies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian and Disaster Management, had been activated to provide immediate assistance to the affected residents to alleviate their suffering.

Utsev disclosed that a committee established by the federal government to address flooding challenges across the country had observed significant issues in the flood-affected areas during their visit to the state.

He expressed confidence that the impact of climate change contributing to flooding could be overcome with time.