In a decisive response to the recent devastating floods that affected over 1,000 households in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has unveiled plans to audit flood-control projects and establish an early-warning system. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of future flooding events, which have severely impacted communities, particularly in the state capital, Osogbo.

Following an assessment of the affected areas, Adeleke directed multiple state ministries and agencies to coordinate efforts in addressing the flooding crisis. The areas most impacted include Gbodofon, Ogooluwa, Omigade, Ijetu, Oke Arungbo, Baruwa, and Isale Osun, with more than 700 buildings near the Osun River reported damaged.

The governor's directives include the development of an Osun State Flood and Stormwater Master Plan, which will be based on detailed hydrological and hydraulic assessments. This plan is expected to enhance the state’s infrastructure resilience against flooding.

Adeleke has also mandated the Osun State Emergency Management Agency (OSEMA) to create a verified register of affected households and coordinate emergency assistance. Local governments are required to submit reports detailing the extent of damage, including infrastructure loss and immediate needs of the communities.

In addition, the governor announced the initiation of a Flood Infrastructure Performance Audit to review major flood interventions implemented since 2020. This audit is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the state is better prepared for future flooding incidents.

To further enhance flood preparedness, Adeleke introduced the Osun Flood Watch, an integrated early-warning and community-reporting platform that aims to improve the state's response capabilities. He also called for the establishment of a Bridge and Culvert Hydraulic Safety Register to evaluate critical crossings and their structural integrity.

The Ministry of Works has been tasked with inspecting damaged infrastructure, including bridges and roads, and implementing necessary safety measures. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment and the Osun Waste Management Authority will work to clear waterways and drainage channels to prevent future blockages.

In light of the flooding crisis, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress expressed sympathy for the victims and called for support from both the state and federal governments, as well as from civil society and religious organizations. They emphasized the need for temporary relief for displaced residents and urged stricter enforcement of planning regulations to prevent construction in flood-prone areas.

Governor Adeleke has mandated that all involved ministries submit their initial implementation reports within 14 days, with a monthly progress report to follow for the duration of the rainy season. These measures reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling the challenges posed by flooding in Osun State, aiming to safeguard communities and enhance resilience against future disasters.