A civil society coalition, The Osun Mastermind, has urged the Osun State government to strengthen its capacity for swift emergency response to victims of natural disasters.

The group’s executive director, Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, made the call at a news conference on Tuesday in Osogbo.

Mr Oyedokun-Alli described the damage recorded in parts of the state following recent heavy rainfall as disheartening.

He advised the government to prioritise the clearing of waterways in preparation for heavy rains that could trigger flash floods across the state.

He stated, “We sympathise with those affected by the rainstorm and pray they receive timely support for recovery.

“The need to strengthen the state’s emergency response capacity to ensure that victims receive immediate assistance is paramount.”

According to him, the destruction recorded in Osogbo and other towns following a downpour accompanied by a heavy storm is among the most devastating in recent times, raising concerns about possible recurrence.

“We call for the immediate collation of data on affected victims to facilitate prompt intervention and sustained support. Government should implement a comprehensive master plan to prevent recurrence in environmentally vulnerable areas,” he said.

The executive director also stressed the need to strengthen meteorological data management and improve communication with residents through the mass media.

Mr Oyedokun-Alli, however, called on environmental stakeholders to support government efforts to mitigate the impact of natural disasters in the state.

A rainstorm late on Saturday wreaked havoc on houses and shops in Osogbo, blowing off rooftops with heavy winds.

One person died, while three others were injured.

(NAN)