The Federal Government on Friday launched the dredging of the Ogun River, starting from the Lagos State section near Ikorodu and extending to Isheri, in a bid to address the recurring flooding that has affected communities in both Lagos and Ogun states.
According to The PUNCH, the Managing Director and CEO of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Deji Ashiru, highlighted that the project aims to widen and deepen the river, thereby boosting its water capacity and helping to prevent flooding.
Ashiru explained that the project, expected to last six months, would also mitigate the risk of dam collapses due to excess water, citing the recent collapse of a dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
“The history of flooding in the Isheri area and other downstream parts of the Ogun River is a matter of great concern. These floods have disrupted lives, damaged properties, and caused significant hardship,” Ashiru stated.
He further clarified that while the release of water from the Oyan Dam is often blamed for flooding along the Isheri axis, this is not the only contributing factor. “Fifty-two identified tributaries to the Ogun River also play a significant role in the rising water levels,” Ashiru explained. He added that despite water being released from the Oyan Dam since March, no flooding incidents had been reported.
Addressing the dam’s role in flood control, Ashiru said, “The Oyan Dam is crucial in managing water flow and erosion control. However, with predictions of increased runoff in the coming months, we must prepare for potential water surges.”
The dredging project, Ashiru noted, is part of the Federal Government’s proactive measures to improve water flow from the Ikorodu-Isheri section into the Lagos lagoon. “By dredging this 10-kilometre stretch, we aim to create a more efficient discharge path for excess water, reducing the risk of flooding,” he added.
The initiative was well-received by local leaders, including Oba Sulaiman Adekunle Bamgbade, the Olofin of Isheri. He commended the Federal Government for responding to the concerns of the people.
“The Ogun River is crucial to our history and economy, but flooding has been a persistent challenge. We are grateful to the Federal Government for this intervention and pledge our full cooperation to ensure the successful completion of the project,” the monarch said.
Additional expressions of gratitude came from Mr Olanrewaju Falade, Chairman of the Lagos/Ogun River Basin Communities Association, and Youth Leader Eshinlokun Ajibola, who both pledged their support for the project.
The official handover of the dredging work from the Ikorodu end to Isheri was carried out by Ashiru on behalf of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority.
