On Friday, the Federal Government officially began the dredging of the Ogun River, starting from its Lagos State end near Ikorodu, extending down to Isheri, as part of efforts to mitigate the persistent flooding affecting communities along this stretch in both Ogun and Lagos states.
During the flag-off ceremony, Deji Ashiru, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, outlined the significance of the 10-kilometre dredging project.
He explained that the initiative aims to widen and deepen the river, thereby increasing its water-carrying capacity and reducing the risk of flooding.
“This project is expected to last six months, and it will not only improve the river’s ability to handle larger volumes of water but also help prevent incidents such as dam failures, like the one that recently occurred in Maiduguri, Borno State,” Ashiru said.
He emphasized that the Federal Government’s decision to undertake this project demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while proactively addressing flood-related issues across the country.
Ashiru clarified that contrary to widespread belief, the release of water from the Oyan Dam is not the sole cause of flooding along the Isheri axis and other Ogun communities.
He pointed out that 52 tributaries contribute significantly to the rising water levels in the Ogun River.
“The Oyan Dam, which is maintained daily and in excellent condition, has been releasing water in a controlled manner since March, yet there have been no reported cases of flooding,” he explained.
Speaking on the broader flooding history of the region, Ashiru noted, “The frequent flooding in the Isheri area and downstream sections of the Ogun River has caused significant damage and hardship for the affected communities. While water releases from the Oyan Dam have often been blamed, we must recognize that 52 tributaries also play a major role in increasing water levels.”
He added that the Oyan Dam plays a crucial role in erosion control by regulating water flows, but recent weather patterns and the dam collapse in Borno State have underscored the need for proactive flood control measures.
“To prepare for the expected high water volumes in the coming months, the Federal Government, through the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, has taken preventive measures by gradually releasing water from the Oyan Dam. This dredging project, beginning from Ikorodu to Isheri, will enhance water flow into the lagoon and create a more efficient drainage path, significantly reducing the risk of floods,” Ashiru said.
Ashiru called on local residents to cooperate with the contractors to ensure smooth operations and the timely completion of the project.
In response, the Olofin of Isheri, Oba Sulaiman Adekunle Bamgbade, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for addressing the long-standing issue of flooding in the area.
He emphasized the importance of the Ogun River to the historical and economic life of the Awori people.
“The Ogun River is central to our history and economy, but flooding has always been our major challenge. We sincerely thank the Federal Government for initiating this dredging project, and we pledge our full support to see it through to completion,” said Oba Bamgbade.
Other leaders from the adjoining communities, including Mr. Olanrewaju Falade, Chairman of the Lagos/Ogun River Basin Communities Association, and Youth Leader Eshinlokun Ajibola, also expressed their appreciation and commitment to supporting the project’s success.
