The Ondo State Government has launched a flood control campaign across Akure and Ondo town, identifying faulty engineering and human interference as the primary culprits behind recurring deluges.
Leading an inspection tour of critical hotspots, Elisha Ebijimi, the Technical Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Erosion Control, revealed that the state is intensifying its “year-round” preparedness strategy to protect lives and property before the rainy season reaches its peak.
The inspection team highlighted specific technical failures and human habits that have turned neighbourhood streets into rivers.
At the Isikan axis, Ebijimi pointed to a “wrongly positioned culvert” built too high and off-centre, which effectively acts as a dam rather than Stella Akinsanmi, Director of Environment for Ondo West LG, noted that illegal structures in areas like Fagun are sitting directly on natural water paths.
Drainage channels remain choked with domestic refuse, a trend officials described as “suicidal” for the community’s safety.
To combat these issues, the state has already deployed heavy-duty amphibious excavators.
One machine is currently stationed in Ondo town, while another is active in Odigbo Local Government Area.
“Last year, we deployed the two machines to Akure South, and this year again, we are going to return to Akure South to sustain the work,” Ebijimi stated, adding that major works at identified sites are slated to begin by the end of March.
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The intervention has drawn mixed reactions of gratitude and urgent pleas from residents who have suffered significant losses in the past.
In Ondo Town, Prophet Olabode Johnson recalled the “extensive damage” from two years ago and praised the governor’s timely action.
Meanwhile, Tosin Iluyomade, a local motorcyclist, urged the government to extend the excavation specifically to the Mother and Child area, which remains vulnerable.
In Akure, Barrister Stephen Ejidike and Comrade Taiwo Lawrence Fayan called for wider, central drainage systems along Ondo and Oyemekun Roads.
They noted that the first rains of the year were “terrible” and had overwhelmed the existing narrow drains.
Moving forward, the Aiyedatiwa administration is focusing on a three-pronged approach to ensure a dry season for all.
First, authorities are enforcing strict measures by prosecuting individuals who dump refuse in drains or build without proper setbacks.
Second, they are carrying out infrastructure corrections, including replacing defective culverts and widening narrow channels.
Third, local government officials are conducting community sensitisation, going door-to-door to educate residents on building codes and proper waste management.
The state’s proactive stance has already earned it multiple awards for flood management, and officials remain confident that this year’s early action will prevent a repeat of past disasters.
