The Ondo State Government has started the channelisation and rehabilitation of critical drainage corridors and natural waterways in parts of the state affected by recent flooding.
The exercise, which began in Ondo West Local Government Area, is aimed at improving stormwater flow, clearing blocked channels, and reducing the risk of further flooding across affected communities.
The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye, FNSE, FNICE, led a team of engineers and technical experts to inspect the affected areas and oversee the commencement of the intervention.
The project involves the clearing of drainage channels, removal of debris and obstructions, restoration of blocked watercourses, and construction of defined channels to enhance the movement of stormwater.
Speaking during the exercise, Olawoye commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for ordering immediate intervention following the flooding incident.
He said the directive was not limited to Ondo Town but extended to other affected communities across the state where urgent flood-control measures were needed.“Following yesterday’s flooding, Mr Governor directed that the affected waterways should be properly mapped and that immediate channelisation work should commence; not only in Ondo Town but also in other affected areas across the state.
We are on ground today with the necessary machinery and technical personnel to begin the work and prevent further flooding,” the Commissioner stated.
Olawoye explained that the intervention reflects the Aiyedatiwa administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive infrastructure development and improved stormwater management.He noted that proper maintenance and channelisation of waterways would ensure the free flow of runoff, reduce drainage congestion, and minimise the possibility of floodwaters overflowing into residential areas.
The Commissioner also urged residents to avoid building structures, farming, or dumping refuse on drainage setbacks, natural waterways, gutters, and stormwater channels.
According to him, such activities reduce the capacity of drainage systems, obstruct water flow, and increase the vulnerability of communities to flooding.
He assured residents that the government would continue to provide engineering solutions, equipment, and resources to strengthen flood prevention measures across Ondo State.
The technical team was received by the Chairman of Ondo East Local Government, Hon. Joshua Ogunduyile; Vice Chairman of Ondo West Local Government, Alhaji (Hon.) Oluwole Bashiru; former member of the House of Representatives representing Ondo West/Ondo East Federal Constituency, Hon. Joseph Akinlaja; APC chieftains, Hon. Jibayo Adeyeye, Hon. Akintunde Folajimi, and other community leaders.
