The management of the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority has allayed the fears of residents in flood-prone areas in Lagos and Ogun states regarding the release of water from the Oyan Dam.
The Managing Director of OORBDA, Adedeji Ashiru, said the authority had taken preemptive measures to ensure that the water release would not lead to flooding.
Nigeria media reported last week that the Lagos and Ogun State governments had advised residents living in flood-prone areas, particularly along riverbanks, to temporarily relocate or brace for potential flooding ahead of the planned release of water from the dam.
However, Ashiru, while addressing the concerns surrounding the water release in an interview with our correspondent last week Thursday, emphasised that the release was part of regular operations to maintain water levels and mitigate flood risks.
In a press release made availab;e to The National Press Newspaper, in Lagos, The management of the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority has allayed the fears of residents in flood-prone areas in Lagos and Ogun states regarding the release of water from the Oyan Dam.
The Managing Director of OORBDA, Adedeji Ashiru, said the authority had taken preemptive measures to ensure that the water release would not lead to flooding.
Saturday PUNCH had reported last week that the Lagos and Ogun State governments had advised residents living in flood-prone areas, particularly along riverbanks, to temporarily relocate or brace for potential flooding ahead of the planned release of water from the dam.
However, Ashiru, while addressing the concerns surrounding the water release in an interview with our correspondent on Thursday, emphasised that the release was part of regular operations to maintain water levels and mitigate flood risks.
He explained that the dam played a crucial role in flood control and mitigating the damaging effects of uncontrolled water flows.
“The authority has taken preemptive measures by releasing water strategically from the dam since March 2024, in a controlled manner, with evidence showing no harm to life or property.
“This has increased the dam’s capacity to accommodate excess floodwater, preparing for potential surges into the Oyan Dam, given the predictions of large volumes of runoff in the coming months,” he said.
Ashiru disclosed that over 52 ungated river tributaries fed into the Ogun River downstream of Oyan Dam, which wer beyond the control of the authority, noting that they also contributed to the flooding experienced in areas like Isheri.
“To alleviate concerns, our management ensures the dam’s integrity and regulates water releases. The Oyan River Dam plays a vital role in supplying raw water to Lagos and Abeokuta, and we are committed to balancing its operations with the needs of surrounding communities,” he added.
He further stated that the Federal Government had initiated the dredging of the Ogun River from Ikorodu to Isheri, which would widen and deepen the river, as well as increase its capacity to manage excess water.
