Osun State Government has intensified flood-risk assessments and public safety measures as rainfall continues across parts of the state, urging residents to remain vigilant and comply with official weather and emergency advisories.
The government disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, noting that preparations were being strengthened to reduce the risks associated with flooding.
According to the statement, "the state is monitoring weather conditions and assessing vulnerable communities to identify locations requiring urgent attention and coordinated interventions."
The government cited a weather bulletin issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet on Thursday, October 15, 2026, which provided a three-day forecast covering October 16 to 18, including Osogbo.
It added that further showers and possible thunderstorms had been forecast for the Ede area over the coming days, prompting calls for caution, particularly in low-lying communities and places with a history of flooding.
"As part of the assessment efforts, the Director-General and Special Envoy of the Governor on Climate Change and Renewable Energy had undertaken a preliminary field assessment in Ede North Local Government Area ahead of a proposed stakeholder engagement on flood management.
"The exercise is intended to improve understanding of local conditions, identify vulnerable locations and support evidence-based responses to flooding," the stwtenr added.
The statement said findings from field assessments, verified incident reports and relevant meteorological and hydrological information would help guide coordination among ministries, departments, agencies, local governments and affected communities.
"The initiative also builds on flood-management directives issued by Governor Ademola Adeleke on 1 October 2026, which included coordinated assessments of affected communities and inspections of damaged roads, bridges and culverts.
"Other measures outlined in the directives include the emergency clearance of critical drainage channels, improved documentation of affected households and the development of a long-term Osun State Flood and Stormwater Master Plan," it said.
The government said effective flood management required immediate preparedness alongside sustained investment in resilient infrastructure, drainage maintenance, responsible waste disposal, land-use planning and reliable early-warning systems.
Residents were advised to avoid walking, swimming or driving through floodwaters because water depth and current strength could be difficult to determine.
They were also urged to keep drains, gutters and culvert entrances free of refuse and other obstructions.
The statement advised motorists to exercise caution during heavy rainfall and avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing channels.
"Residents in flood-prone locations are encouraged to monitor water levels and move essential documents and valuables to safer places when water began rising," it added.
The government also urged residents to report blocked drainage channels, damaged culverts, unsafe bridges and rising floodwaters promptly to local government authorities and emergency responders.
It advised the public to follow updates from NiMet, the Osun State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant authorities.
“Residents in areas experiencing rapidly rising water or immediate danger should move to safer ground without waiting for further announcements and seek assistance from the appropriate emergency services,” the statement said.
The government called on community leaders, transport operators, businesses and public institutions to support preparedness efforts, adding that public safety remained a shared responsibility.