The Osun State Government has expressed sympathy with residents and businesses affected by a recent rainstorm that swept through Osogbo and nearby communities, causing widespread damage to property and infrastructure.
The Director-General and Special Envoy of the Governor on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Professor Chinwe Obuaku Igwe, conveyed the government’s condolences in a statement, acknowledging the impact of the storm on livelihoods across affected areas.
Communities including Aregbe Junction, Oke-Fia, Ogo-Oluwa, and Osogbo Grammar School recorded significant damage, with structures such as residential buildings, billboards, fences, kiosks, and electric poles affected. Authorities, however, confirmed that no lives were lost.
Preliminary findings linked the incident to a combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds, consistent with projections in the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
The forecast had warned of increased rainfall variability, early-season storms, and rising temperatures across the South-West region.
The statement noted that prior to the storm, the state government had initiated precautionary measures aligned with NiMet’s projections. These included issuing pre-season climate advisories, identifying flood-prone areas, planning drainage maintenance, and integrating climate data into development planning.
Despite these preparations, the severity of the storm has prompted the government to scale up its response efforts.
According to the envoy, immediate actions being implemented include rapid assessment of affected areas, debris clearance, and coordination with emergency services to restore normalcy.
The government also announced plans to accelerate drainage desilting across Osogbo, particularly in high-risk flood zones, alongside a statewide safety audit of public infrastructure such as billboards and electrical installations.
In addition, authorities will intensify enforcement of proper waste disposal practices and expand structured waste management systems under the state’s circular economy framework.
To improve preparedness, the government said it is enhancing early warning systems to ensure timely dissemination of weather advisories to residents.
Residents have been urged to support government efforts by adhering to environmental regulations, avoiding indiscriminate waste disposal, planting trees, and reporting blocked drainage systems or damaged infrastructure.
The envoy stressed that climate change is already impacting communities and requires collective action to mitigate its effects.
“The government remains committed to protecting lives, safeguarding infrastructure, and promoting sustainable, climate-resilient development across Osun State,” the statement concluded.
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