Oyo SEMA Alerts Ibadan LGAs of Imminent Heavy Flooding

Ibadan, Nigeria — The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYOSEMA) has issued an urgent flood alert for residents in Akinyele, Egbeda, and Oluyole local government areas, following predictions of heavy rainfall in the coming hours.

In a statement released in Ibadan by the agency’s Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, the Flood Early Warning System indicated that rainfall in excess of 100mm is expected within the next 24 hours, potentially leading to flash floods in vulnerable areas.

Highlighting specific locations, Busari said areas around the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Akinyele, the Ibadan Airport in Egbeda, and the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Oluyole are likely to experience significant downpours.

“The forecast makes it necessary for local authorities and residents to take urgent action to prevent loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of property and infrastructure,” she noted.

She warned that streets could flood rapidly, especially in low-lying areas, and that roads may become impassable. Driving conditions, she said, would be particularly dangerous.

“Turn around, don’t drown,” Busari cautioned, urging residents to avoid walking or driving through flooded areas. She also advised those in high-risk zones to be ready to relocate to safer ground if directed by authorities.

OYOSEMA reaffirmed its collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to monitor the situation and respond swiftly to any emergencies.

By Makinde oyinkansola| July 5, 2025