Osun Takes Action to Keep Floods at Bay

The Osun State Government has demolished about 30 buildings built on waterways as part of a major effort to prevent flooding this rainy season.

The demolition, confirmed on Sunday by the Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Mayowa Adejoorin, targeted structures in swampy areas and along riverbanks in towns including Osogbo, Ile-Ife, and Ilesa.

“In Osogbo, we removed about 15 structures, six in Ile-Ife, six in Ilesa, and others in different parts of the state. This is to ensure the safety of residents,” Adejoorin said.

According to the commissioner, the move followed repeated warnings and eviction notices issued to affected property owners, some of whom ignored the directives. The exercise was also prompted by flood alerts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET).

Adejoorin explained that the government has been proactive, starting dredging works in December and clearing refuse from waterways to prevent blockages. He assured residents that with these measures, the state hopes to avoid severe flooding that could force people from their homes this year.

He also warned against dumping waste in waterways and urged full compliance with environmental regulations to protect lives and property.

“Our priority is safety,” he stressed. “Where we have illegal structures, we give notice, and if they are not removed, we demolish them.”