The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has directed relevant agencies of government to activate the state’s flood prevention plans with immediate effect.
He specifically instructed the Ministry of Environment, Works and other associated agencies to speed up work on all ongoing chanelisation projects and launch the implementation of flood prevention agenda of the state government.
Adeleke gave the directives after receiving reports of the inspections of the recent Osogbo flash floods which affected several areas of the state capital.
The governor in a statement issued Sunday by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, commiserated with victims of the flash flood at Osogbo and other parts of the state.
Adeleke instructed the Ministry of Environment to submit a report on the incidents with actionable recommendations.
He explained that part of the programmes included clearing of blocked drainage and waterways, removal of structures blocking river lines, sensitization against refuse dumping in waterways and continuation of channelisation programmes of the administration.
Adeleke said: “I direct the relevant agencies to set out to work on our flood prevention programmes. What we experienced was a flash flood but we must be proactive. All work plans already approved must be implemented without further delay.
“Osun is one of the states listed on the flood alert. The rainy season is here and we must be on the alert. We have launched many channelisation programmes across many towns and villages. This is still ongoing.
“I also urge our people to stop dumping of refuse on drainage and waterways. Proper disposal of waste is provided for under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment. Our people must embrace such best practices to avoid avoidable loss of properties