A torrential flood swept through parts of Afijio Local Government Area in Oyo State on Saturday, wreaking massive destruction across multiple communities and leaving scores of residents displaced. The worst-hit areas include Ilu-Aje and Imini, where property and farmlands valued at several millions of naira were submerged, resulting in widespread devastation and loss of livelihoods.

Farmlands, Homes Destroyed

The disaster, which followed heavy downpours, caught many residents by surprise. Àkeem Olatunbosun, one of the affected farmers, lamented the unexpected nature of the flooding and described the overwhelming damage it caused.

“The flood caught us unaware as it was never envisaged. We cannot quantify our losses, which include farmlands and other valuables,” he stated.

Farmlands that serve as the primary source of income for many residents in these agrarian communities were completely inundated, with crops either washed away or rendered unusable. Several homes also suffered structural damage or were completely destroyed, forcing many victims to flee for safety.

Reports indicate that some victims have now taken temporary shelter in nearby villages, relying on the goodwill of relatives and neighbors for basic necessities. The affected communities are currently grappling with the aftermath, as many residents face uncertainty over how to rebuild their lives.

Victims Appeal for Government Support

In the wake of the disaster, residents and community leaders have issued an urgent appeal to the Oyo State Government to provide relief materials and initiate recovery efforts. They emphasized the need for emergency support, including food supplies, shelter, and financial assistance to restart farming activities and rebuild damaged homes.

The loss of farmland is especially critical, as it threatens food security and the economic stability of families who rely heavily on subsistence and commercial agriculture.

“We are pleading with the government to help us. Our families are suffering, and we need support to recover from this tragedy,” Olatunbosun added.

Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency Reacts

In response to the incident, the Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency (OYSROMA), through its chairman Busoye Ogunlade, issued a public condolence message on Sunday. He expressed sympathy to all affected individuals and promised swift action to address the crisis.

“My heart goes out to everyone affected by the devastating flood. May the love and support of family and friends bring comfort during this difficult time,” Ogunlade said.

The agency acknowledged the far-reaching impact of the flood on livelihoods, homes, and critical infrastructure in the affected communities. Ogunlade further assured that OYSROMA would work swiftly to prevent further occurrences and provide assistance where possible.

“We are committed to speeding up efforts that will help mitigate the effects of this disaster and ensure that future events of this nature are better managed or averted entirely,” he stated.

He also offered prayers for strength and resilience for those grappling with the aftermath.

Concerns Over Recurrent Flooding in Oyo

This latest disaster has reignited concerns about flooding in Oyo State, where episodes of heavy rainfall continue to trigger seasonal flooding, especially in rural areas with poor drainage systems and unregulated land use.

In previous years, several local government areas have suffered similar devastation, prompting calls for comprehensive flood control strategies, including:

• Construction and maintenance of effective drainage networks

• Environmental awareness and enforcement of building regulations

• Government-funded relocation or resettlement schemes for flood-prone communities

• Early warning systems and emergency preparedness infrastructure

Local residents say little has changed in terms of proactive government response, even after repeated warnings from meteorological agencies about the increased risk of flooding due to climate change and poor environmental practices.

Climate Change and Infrastructure Challenges

Experts continue to link these floods to broader issues such as climate change, which has led to more intense and unpredictable rainfall in recent years. Combined with inadequate infrastructure, the result is devastating for vulnerable communities.

Environmentalists have emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the state government, local authorities, and community leaders to implement long-term solutions. These include sustainable land use planning, investment in flood control infrastructure, and public education campaigns on environmental responsibility.

What Happens Next?

As victims in Ilu-Aje and Imini struggle to find temporary shelter and recover from their losses, the immediate concern remains how quickly government agencies can respond with relief measures. Stakeholders are urging Oyo State authorities to treat the matter with urgency and transparency.

Emergency response teams, relief agencies, and humanitarian organizations may need to coordinate efforts to provide food, clean water, clothing, and medical assistance to displaced individuals.

Furthermore, residents hope that the tragic experience will catalyze long-overdue investments in disaster prevention and rural development, especially in flood-prone areas.

Conclusion

The flood disaster in Oyo State is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of rural communities to extreme weather events and the pressing need for comprehensive flood management policies. As affected residents mourn their losses and seek a path to recovery, all eyes remain on the state government to mobilize resources, deliver relief, and take concrete steps to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.