Ogun State government has announced plans to create additional tributaries and outlets for the Ogun River, specifically targeting the wetland border towns of Isheri, Kara, Wawa, and Arepo, to provide a lasting solution to the long-standing flooding issues in the affected areas.
Commissioner for Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya announced this during a consultative meeting with residents of Ogun River Basin Communities at the Riverview Estate in Isheri.
Dr Oresanya noted that the project, slated to begin next month, would be executed in phases, as the project would affect residents and some buildings, hence the need to consult with the residents of the area before it commences in a few weeks.
Speaking on the state government’s intervention in the communities since last year, the commissioner said the retention for flood in the area had reduced from five to six weeks to three weeks due to the dredging of Oparo River in the area, while appealing to the residents to cooperate with the government on the dredging exercise.
Responding, the Chairman, Ogun-Lagos River Basin Communities, Mr Olanrewaju Akinde said the meeting has renewed their hope and they are looking forward to Ogun State government’s various interventions that would improve their living conditions.
Radio Nigeria/Deborah Ige
