Mr. Abe, a motorcyclist, was swept away despite warnings from his colleagues not to ride along the Ile Epo Bus Stop Canal in Alimoso Local Government Area of Lagos State. The rainfall, which commenced around 2 am on Saturday and persisted until approximately 2 pm, caused extensive damage in communities like Papa Ashafa and Fashola in Orile-Agege Local Government Area, Alimosho.
Numerous residences, offices, and roads were inundated by the flood. In response, Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, Zonal Coordinator South-West of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), urged residents to exercise utmost caution. Farinloye stated, “NEMA, in collaboration with other emergency agencies, is conducting assessments at critical points, engaging with affected communities, and providing immediate solutions to address the situations.”
“NEMA officials, along with the Disaster Management Unit of the Nigeria Police, Lagos State Neighbourhood Security Corps, and the Community Development Associations of Papa Ashafa, Fashola, and others, have distributed emergency relief aid to the flood-affected communities. Some vulnerable groups have been relocated to temporary safe facilities, while adults are salvaging their water-affected properties.”
Furthermore, Farinloye mentioned, “NEMA is supporting the owner of a building where the fence collapsed. It’s crucial to reinforce the base and prevent potential collapses onto neighboring structures. Additionally, we’re supplying clothing for children and women, mattresses, antiseptic, and other immediate assistance to approximately 200 affected individuals in Orile Agege Local Government Area this afternoon.”
Meanwhile, Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed, the Director General of NEMA, has directed the immediate distribution of relief materials to individuals seeking refuge in four churches in the affected areas. Ago-Palace, located in the Isolo area of Lagos State, faced significant disruptions as heavy rain inundated the area on a Saturday morning, compelling residents to clear water from their homes. The community, accustomed to the challenges of the rainy season, especially due to inadequate drainage systems along the roadsides, experienced flooding inside residences.