An environmentalist, Anthony Zosi has called on the Osun State Government to take prompt steps to avert the likelihood of heavy rainfall causing flooding and subjecting thousands of residents to hardship.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) had predicted heavy rainfall for some selected regions, including the South West geopolitical zone.

In 2018, most parts of the State capital, Osogbo experienced flooding which prompted residents and stakeholders to urge the State government to declare an environmental state of emergency.

Also, in August and October, 2021, most parts of the State capital, Osogbo and Ilesa were affected by flooding, which prompted the State government to embark on emergency draining of rivers and waterways around the State, especially the affected parts.

Zosi stated that with the level of rainfall that most parts of the South-West, especially Osun has been experiencing, there was the need to raise alarm and speed up first responder reaction to avert any possible flood situation in the State.

He urged the government, to as a matter of urgency, drain rivers and waterways which will likely be affected.

While wondering why the State government had not put in place machinery to prevent another potential flooding disaster for almost one year, he alleged that they had concentrated more on the election than what the people needed.

In his words, “It is on record that between July, August, September and October, the level of precipitation is always higher than usual and considering that Osun is in the rainforest region, the rainfall expectancy should be high.

“In the period of three years, we have had constant signs that the rainfall yearly is increasing, but the painful thing is that our government will not act until it happens.

“Flood almost took over Osogbo in 2019. In 2021, it re-occured in Osogbo and Ilesa. People suffered, families evacuated their homes. The low lying areas of Osogbo on that fateful August morning were overwhelmed by the flood and what has the government done since then? Nothing! They concentrated on the election.

“Now, the rain is upon us again. What have they done? Nothing. I guess they are waiting for the flood water to chase us out of our homes again.

“The State government should commence draining the waterways and rivers. On Friday, I saw dredgers and it was commendable. They should do it on time before it is too late.”