Commercial motorcyclists and passengers narrowly escaped death on Tuesday following hours of torrential rainfall that triggered flooding across parts of Akure, the Ondo State capital, sweeping away motorcycles and leaving residents stranded.
The heavy downpour caused severe flooding and erosion and blocked drainage channels in several parts of the metropolis, with the Oke Aro axis among the worst affected.
In the Oke Aro area of the state capital, some commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, reportedly watched helplessly as floodwaters carried away their motorcycles while they scrambled to safety.
The downpour also disrupted movement across the city, leaving several workers, students and other commuters stranded for hours as floodwaters took over major roads and residential areas.
Residents around the affected areas attributed the worsening situation partly to the ongoing construction and dualisation of the Akure-Idanre Road, which has lasted for more than one and a half years.
They called on the state government and relevant authorities to urgently address the drainage challenges and expedite work on the road project to prevent further flooding and possible loss of lives.
A resident of the Iloro Market Junction, Nireti Akinbolawa, said residents had become increasingly worried about the danger posed by flooding whenever there was heavy rainfall.
‘We are tired of this suffering. Every time it rains, we fear for our lives. The government must act fast before we lose someone.
‘The construction has made things worse. They should clear and enlarge the bridges and drainages so that water can flow freely,’ she said.
Another resident, Ifeoluwa Olabode, acknowledged the efforts of the government but urged it to do more to address the condition of the roads and drainage infrastructure.
‘We appreciate the government’s efforts so far, but more needs to be done. Our roads and drainage systems need urgent attention.
‘We are begging Governor Aiyedatiwa to fulfil his promise and complete this road,’ Olabode said.
The residents also appealed to members of the public to stop dumping refuse in drainage channels, waterways and by roadsides, warning that such practices could worsen flooding.
They further urged motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians to avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or waterways whose depth and condition were unknown, noting that such actions could result in avoidable deaths.
Contacted on the incident, the Commissioner for Environment in the state, Tob Loko, said the situation was still being assessed.
He added that the state government would take the necessary action after the assessment.