Flood: Osun begins massive dredging of rivers, waterways

From Fisayo Akinduro, Osogbo
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As part of efforts to forestall flooding, the Osun State Government has commenced massive dredging of its rivers and waterways.

Similarly, Governor Gboyega Oyetola has reiterated his warning to residents against the bad habit of disposing wastes in rivers and drainages, saying the government will soon set up a Task Force to ensure citizens of the state dispose their wastes in accordance with the state’s environmental regulations.

Oyetola disclosed this when he visited some flooded areas where the dredging exercise has begun.

It will be recalled that the governor and his entourage last Sunday visited some flooded areas in Osogbo, the state capital to assess the extent of damage.

He had on the occasion promised that the government would commence the dredging of the rivers by this week.

Speaking during the inspection of the ongoing dredging, Oyetola said the topographical location of the state is the major reason for the incidence of the overflow of the rivers.

He called on the people of the state to cultivate the habit of proper waste disposal and management.

He said the decision to dredge all the rivers and waterways across the state were in fulfilment of the administration’s commitment to ensuring the security of lives and property of the citizens.

“This exercise is a confirmation of the fact that our administration is concerned about the security of lives and property of our people.

“This is not the only place where dredging is taking place, the dredging is taking place in Ife axis of the state and other places in the state as well.

“My appeal to our people is to do away with indiscriminate dumping of refuse. We must all adhere strictly to proper disposal and management of refuse.

“In our efforts to ensure that this occurrence didn’t happen again, we will not hesitate to take away some buildings to avert flooding in the future, as well as further guarantee safety of our people.

“So my appeal once again to the people around here is to exercise patience as we are working hard to ensure that they get some relief. We are fully prepared for the welfare and well being of our people and as a government we shall do our best to achieve these.

The contractor handling the project, Engineer Benjamin Olamiju, assured the state of quality service, saying the dredging exercise would be completed in the next few weeks.

He commended the state government for its swift response to the incidence.

Three of the residents of the flooded areas, Mr. Kamoru Omolade; Mr. Olayiwola Gbadewo and Mrs. Abulo Omolara applauded the government for its timely response to their plights.