The Osun State government has urged residents to be alive to their responsibilities in the prevention and management of floods.

Rufus Oyegbile, Special Adviser to Governor Gboyega Oyetola on Environment and Sanitation, gave the charge at the inauguration of the dredging of rivers and waterways in Iwo Local Government Area of the state.

He said the charge was in response to warnings by the Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) on flood prevention.

He added that a forecast by NIHSA and NIMET that the state was highly probable to flood prompted the state government to embark on intensive flood control to protect lives and property of its citizens.

He assured that the government would not relent in its efforts to avert environmental disaster in the state.

“We have it on record that in the last two years, the government has done a lot on dredging of rivers and waterways across the length and breadth of the state.

“Although our efforts have been challenged by the recent flooding in some parts of the state, the situation calls for urgent action by the government and by all other critical stakeholders,’’ he said.

Also, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, Special Adviser to the governor on Civic Engagement, noted that awareness on flood preparedness was imperative owing to its devastating effect.

Mr Oyintiloye appealed to community leaders, especially at the grassroots to continue sensitising people in their domains against dumping of refuse and erecting structures on water channels to prevent flooding.

The special adviser said community leaders must support the government in re-awakening the consciousness of the people towards community service, such as clearing of drainages and waterways.

He noted that such actions were part of the social responsibilities of citizens, particularly those in flood prone areas. 

(NAN)