By KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE
IKEJA—Following the increasing intensity of rains in the South-West, particularly the high volume of rains recorded in Ogun State in the last two weeks, residents of Mile 12, Agiliti, Isheri North, Owode-Onirin, Ikorodu, Majidun, Ajegunle, Agiliti and those within the flood plain areas of Ogun River have been advised to be on the alert should the intensity of rains increase.

The advice came against the prediction that more rains were likely to lead to serious flooding.

A statement by Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, however, said the warning was to place them on alert, so that they are not caught unawares.

He said if, however, there was need for them to move, the government resettlement centres will be made available for people who have nowhere to stay.

The warning followed the report that the Ogun River has risen by four meters due to recent heavy rains, recorded upstream western part of Ogun and Lagos states.

Mr. Tunji Bello further stated that “this statement was only meant to put residents in this area on alert, and not to create any panic, for if there is any need to relocate, members of the public will be adequately informed, and if there are residents that have nowhere to go, they will be resettled at our resettlement centre”.

He further stated that “although, it has not reached a Crisis level yet, but as a proactive and responsible Government, the Ministry of the Environment is duty bound to inform members of the public about the state of our environment, especially at this time when the world is experiencing serious global warming as a result of climate change”.

Lagosians were further assured of the minute by minute monitoring of the situation by officials of the State Government and will continue to issue necessary warning/alert to the members of the public as the need arise.

Residents of these areas were however advised not to panic, but rather be vigilant and be on the alert , as the state Government will continue to monitor and members of the public will be adequately informed about further developments.