The government in Lagos is telling people who live near the Ogun River to move to higher ground. This is because a dam called the Oyan Dam will soon let out some water. Letting out water will help keep the dam safe and make sure there are no big floods.
The Lagos government made this announcement after the Ogun-Osun River Authority started to release water carefully so the dam stays strong and reduces flood risks.
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, who is in charge of environment and water in Lagos, shared this news on Thursday.
Mr. Wahab explained that they decide when to let the water out by checking the weather reports and data about water levels. They get this information from Nigeria’s weather experts and a special group that watches water levels.
“Today, the Lagos government told everyone living by the Ogun River they should get ready to move to safer spots because the dam is letting out water. Moving is important to keep everyone and the dam safe,” said Mr. Wahab.
Important Information
The government also said which areas might be affected. These places include communities like Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, Owode, Ajegunle, and Odo-Ogun. But not all flooding is because of the dam. Many small rivers join the Ogun River, and heavy rain makes these small rivers fill up faster and cause floods.
The Ogun-Osun River team is digging the riverbed deeper from Ikorodu to Isheri to help hold more water and lower flood chances.
The Lagos government is keeping an eye on everything to make sure people are safe. They want to help people, especially those like women, children, and elderly people who need more care.
Mr. Wahab also asked everyone to help out by keeping things clean. He asked people not to throw trash in the drains because this can block water from flowing where it needs to go.