The Osun State Government has announced plans to audit flood-control projects carried out across the state since 2020 and introduce an early-warning system following the devastating floods recorded in several communities.
The measures were contained in directives issued by Governor Ademola Adeleke after an assessment of areas affected by the recent flooding, which reportedly impacted more than 1,000 households across the state.
Several communities in Osogbo, including Gbodofon, Ogooluwa, Omigade, Ijetu, Oke Arungbo, Baruwa and Isale Osun, were among the worst affected.
The state government said the flooding also damaged residential buildings, hotels, schools and business premises, particularly communities located around the Osun River.
Adeleke directed relevant ministries and agencies, including Environment, Works, Water Resources, Lands and Physical Planning, Health, Agriculture and Local Government Affairs, alongside the Osun State Emergency Management Agency and Osun Waste Management Authority, to conduct a coordinated assessment of the affected areas.
OSEMA was directed to create a verified register of affected households and coordinate emergency assistance, while affected local governments are expected to submit reports on damaged infrastructure and the immediate needs of residents.
The governor also ordered a Flood Infrastructure Performance Audit covering major flood-control interventions carried out from 2020 to date.
As part of efforts to improve preparedness, Adeleke directed the establishment of “Osun Flood Watch,” an integrated early-warning and community-reporting platform intended to provide timely information and strengthen the state’s response to future flooding.
He also ordered the creation of a Bridge and Culvert Hydraulic Safety Register to identify critical crossings according to their structural and flood-related risks.
The Ministry of Works is to inspect damaged bridges, culverts and roads and take emergency safety measures, while the Ministry of Environment and OWMA are to clear waterways, drainage channels and blocked culvert entrances.
The governor further directed stronger enforcement against developments obstructing waterways and drainage corridors and ordered the development of an Osun State Flood and Stormwater Master Plan based on detailed hydrological and hydraulic assessments.
All relevant ministries, departments and agencies are expected to submit their initial implementation reports within 14 days, with monthly progress reports to follow for the rest of the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has expressed sympathy with victims of the flooding and called for urgent support from the state and Federal Governments, religious organisations, civil society groups and individuals.
The party also urged the government to provide temporary relief for displaced residents and called on the National Emergency Management Agency to assist affected communities.
The APC further advocated stricter enforcement of planning regulations to prevent construction on waterways and other flood-prone areas.