Ola Oresanya, the commissioner for environment in Ogun State, expressed concern over public apathy and warned that civic inaction worsens the situation after the flash floods that occurred between August 4 and August 6.
Mr. Oresanya noted on Sunrise Daily that recent rainfall has exceeded the average over the course of the year, reaching nearly 400mm.
He claimed that, as long as the drainage channels were clear, water should typically drain within 24 to 48 hours, even when it was anticipated during peak rainfall.
He lamented, however, that citizens’ inability to report drainage blockages or alert authorities significantly affect the difficulties encountered during emergencies.
Read more about flooding in Lekki, Ikorodu, where “Move Now” warns residents in some areas.
“People shouldn’t fold their arms,” he said. People don’t think the government sector is my business until the problem is, he said.
Oresanya advocated for better cooperation between local and state governments, citing the need for stronger enforcement, obvious penalties for environmental violations, and a more engaged public. He urged people to report any signs of clogged drains, illegal structures on waterways, or other potential sources of flooding.
He also urged people to demand accountability from public institutions and stop illegal structures, and advocated for more effective communication between government and community-based organizations.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “I think what we can do, which has been working in Ogun state, is effective collaboration with the community-based organizations at a strict level. People simply need to create a video, send it to a platform, and the government will respond. There must also be an exchange of information.
While describing the structural plans in place in Ogun State, Oresanya claimed that the government was strengthening the approval processes for new buildings to ensure compliance with environmental safety standards.
He also emphasized the importance of building above ground to allow for safe drainage and avoid flooding.
Source: Channels TV
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