Nigeria, July 6 -- The Ogun State Government on Sunday ordered residents living along river channels to relocate with immediate effect to avoid the ravages of flood.

This followed the torrential downpour, which lasted about 16 hours on Saturday, causing havoc in Abeokuta, the state capital.

The state's commissioner for environment, Abiodun Abudu-Balogun, gave the order while inspecting the damages caused by flood. He sad the government would pull down the homes of those who flouted the directive.

The downpour submerged buildings in Kuto, Isale-Igbein, Lanfewa, Amolaso, Ijeun-Titun, Ago-Ijesa, Abiola Way, Isale Abetu, Sokori, Igbore, Oke-Mosan, Isale Ake and Adigbe, among others.

The commissioner, who addressed journalists after the as...