- –directs assessment of affected areas
By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, has commiserated with residents and families affected by the recent flooding in parts of the state, directing the Special Task Force on Environmental Sanitation to visit affected communities and assess the situation.
Expressing concern over the impact of the flooding on homes, businesses and livelihoods, he attributed the situation partly to excessive rainfall experienced across the state in recent weeks, which has put additional pressure on drainage channels and waterways.
The governor directed the task force, led by the state Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina, to visit the affected areas, assess the environmental conditions contributing to the flooding and prepare a response plan for the government.
“I have directed the Special Task Force to visit affected areas and prepare a response plan for the administration,” the governor said.
Adeleke recalled that his administration had undertaken initial dredging and drainage interventions aimed at improving water flow and reducing flooding across the state.
He assured residents that the government would undertake further interventions where necessary to minimise the impact of flooding and protect lives and property.
The governor, however, stressed the need for residents to take responsibility for keeping waterways and drainage channels free from obstruction.
He warned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse and construction on natural water channels and flood-prone areas.
“I urge my people, the residents of Osun State, to stop dumping refuse on waterways, roadside and desist from building on natural water channels as well as flood-prone corridors,” Adeleke said.
The governor also urged residents to report blocked drainages, flooding incidents and other environmental hazards to the appropriate authorities for prompt action.
Adeleke assured residents affected by the flooding that the state government would continue to monitor the situation and take additional measures to protect lives, property and communities across the state.
