Lagos Flood Alert: Government Urges Residents On Vulnerable Communities To Relocate Temporarily

By Sherif Salau

The Lagos State Government has urged residents living in a water prone and waterfront area to vacate their residents temporarily to a safer and higher ground following a seven day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

The caution comes as increased rainfall and high water levels are expected across parts of Lagos, especially communities that are close to the Ogun River and other major waterways.

Residents in parts of Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Eti-Osa, Kara, Kirikiri, llaje, Isheri North, Itowolo, Majidun, Ajegunle, Ogolonto, and parts of Agboyi among vulnerable areas are being advised to take the alert seriously and relocate before circumstances degenerate.

Authorities have stressed that no property is worth risking a human life. Residents are also advised to do away with flooded roads, waterways and keep drainage free of refuse, and pay a very close attention to official emergency updates. For families whose homes, businesses and livelihoods are situated around the waterways or flood prone areas, early move out could make the difference between a manageable emergency and a devastating loss. As the rain continues, vigilance, preparedness and timely relocation remain the easiest and safest response.