Flood: Don differs with Oyetola on relocation, says govt should set up temporary camps

By Joseph Akanbi

A Professor of Anthropology and Development Studies, Prof. Remi Ajala has disagreed with the Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, over his advise that residents living in flood prone areas should relocate temporarily.

Prof. Ajala who was responding to a statement credited to the Governor, said It can not be easy for people to just move without alternative places to move to.

He said “Relocate to where? Each local govt that has terrble signs of flooding should establish temporary camps that should be run between now and November ending.”

Recall that Governor Oyetola had on Tuesday during his visitation to one of the flooded areas of Osogbo, advised occupants of buildings located along waterways and canals in the state to relocate temporarily.

The governor, who defied the torrential rain to have an on-the-spot assessment of the flooded areas, directed the officials of the Ministry of Works to move in immediately to relieve the victims of their losses and take measures to avert future occurrence.

Oyetola said “I decided to come around so as to assess the collapsed canal that caused the flooding. With what we have seen, the dam has to be properly looked into. We will do the needful to ensure safety by involving the officials of the Ministry of Works and Water Corporation.

“We shall do everything to forestall future occurrence. I will implore people around the canal to evacuate and stay away temporarily.”

The heavy rain, which began at about 4:30 pm on Tuesday, flooded many parts of Osogbo, including Akindeko-Alekuwodo Market, Malam Tope area, Igbona, Testing Ground, Ayekale, Awosuru, Rasco, Agunbelewo and Mallam Tope area.

The flood sacked residents from their homes and traders from their stores, destroying property and goods worth hundreds of millions of naira.

(81)