The Lagos State Government has directed residents in flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, gave the directive in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.
The statement was issued by the Director, Public Affairs, Mr Kunle Adeshina.
Wahab said the directive followed a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency.
He said the alert covered Lagos and 14 other states, warning that rising river levels could cause flooding in vulnerable communities.
According to the alert, flooding could affect schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship in vulnerable communities.
Wahab listed vulnerable areas in Lagos as Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B, among others.
The commissioner urged residents in affected communities not to wait until floodwaters rise before taking action.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.
He said the state government had intensified monitoring across riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities.
Wahab urged residents to move to higher ground and remain there until the peak of the resurgent rainy season had passed.
He said Lagos usually experienced a second phase of the rainy season from September, with increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal influences.
The commissioner advised residents near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies to remain vigilant.
He also urged them to comply with official safety advisories and prepare for possible temporary relocation.
Wahab urged communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways to exercise heightened caution.
He said upstream rainfall and rising water levels could affect downstream communities.
The commissioner specifically mentioned Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi as areas requiring heightened alert.
He said residents in those areas and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin should remain on high alert from Sept. 19 to Sept. 25.
Wahab also advised residents in coastal and waterfront communities to monitor official flood forecasts.
He urged them to prepare for temporary relocation when flooding became imminent.
The commissioner called on local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response mechanisms.
He urged residents to move people, livestock and valuable possessions to safer locations where necessary.
Wahab said the state government would continue monitoring river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments with relevant federal agencies.
He added that routine cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure across the state would continue.
Wahab urged residents to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains, canals and waterways.
He said blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and increase risks to communities.
The commissioner also cautioned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water.
Wahab said the government would continue deploying measures to reduce flood risks and provide timely updates as the situation evolved.
He urged Lagos residents to remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official flood advisories. (NAN)
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