Oyo issues flood alert as heavy rains threaten Ibadan communities

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has issued a warning to residents in flood-prone areas of the state, urging them to prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding in parts of Ibadan.

In a statement released Tuesday in Ibadan, SEMA’s Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, cited data from the Oyo State Flood Early Warning System, which indicates that communities in the eastern and northeastern parts of Ibadan are at heightened risk.

She specifically mentioned areas in Lagelu Local Government such as Iyana Offa and parts of Moniya, along with surrounding communities extending toward Osun State, as likely to experience intense rainfall. Similar warnings were issued for Egbeda Local Government, especially its eastern boundaries and zones bordering Lagelu LGA.

“Communities along the Ibadan-Ife Road (A5 Highway), including Egbeda and neighboring settlements to the east, are expected to experience significant rainfall,” Busari noted.

The alert also extends to parts of the Ibadan metropolis, including the eastern and central districts. At-risk areas include IITA, Ibadan Airport, University of Ibadan, Ojoo, Akobo, Basorun, Gate, Challenge, and Ring Road.

According to the agency, sections of Akinyele Local Government—particularly the eastern and central parts—and the northeastern portion of Oluyole Local Government are also likely to be affected by flooding.

Mrs. Busari stated that SEMA, in collaboration with other government agencies and civil society groups, is fully prepared to provide emergency response and support to affected communities.

She advised residents to take immediate precautions, avoid flood-prone areas during the downpour, and remain vigilant. “Discretion is the better part of valour,” she added.