Ondo State Activates 112 Toll-Free Emergency Line, Expands Disaster Response Measures

Residents of Ondo State can now report emergencies more quickly and efficiently as the state government has activated the national 112 toll-free emergency number. The new line replaces lengthy hotlines previously in use and connects callers directly to the relevant response agency for disasters such as floods, fires, building collapse, and child trafficking.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response, Prince Wellington Adebawo, disclosed this in Akure while speaking with newsmen. He explained that the initiative was made possible through the support of the Federal Government and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

“From now on, residents can simply dial 112, and their call will be directed to the appropriate emergency agency. With this platform, and with the full support of our amiable governor, Ondo State is ready to respond to any kind of emergency,” Adebawo assured.

Beyond the helpline, the government has intensified measures to mitigate flooding and other disasters across the state. These efforts include community sensitisation, infrastructural clearing, and targeted relief planning for vulnerable areas.

According to Adebawo, in the past three months, the state—working with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA)—has embarked on extensive clearing of waterways, particularly in Akure and surrounding communities. He urged residents to report erosion-prone and flood-risk areas promptly, noting that government relief packages such as food items, mattresses, sinks and clothing are available to support affected victims.

He explained that the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, who chairs SEMA, coordinates disaster-response efforts in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, the Fire Service and other technical support agencies.

On early warning systems and public sensitisation, Adebawo said campaigns have been intensified through community outreach, radio programmes and TV jingles. “We’ve visited Ikare, Akoko, Ilaje, Ese-Odo, and other high-risk areas to sensitise residents. People in difficult terrains, especially the riverine zones, are receiving special attention” he noted.

He added that the state is also working with development partners, including NEMA and the World Bank, which recently visited the Ilaje axis. “They have pledged support, particularly in communities affected by sea incursion, where many residents have already been displaced” he explained.

To strengthen preparedness, the government is also planning to establish a relief camp for displaced persons, which will serve as temporary shelter during large-scale disasters such as floods and fire outbreaks.

Adebawo appealed to residents to support these efforts by keeping drainage channels clear of refuse and promptly reporting any violations. He further assured that the state remains committed to not only providing immediate relief but also delivering long-term empowerment programmes to help victims rebuild their lives.