Shasha River (Odo Shasha)
The Shasha River, also known as the Sasa River (Yoruba: Odo Shasha), is a river in Lagos, Ogun, and Osun States of southwestern Nigeria. The landscape through which it flows ranges from rainforest in the north to mangrove swamps in the south.
Course
The Shasha River originates from Shasha village in the Ife region of Osun State. It flows southwest for approximately 50 kilometers, passing through the states of Osun, Ogun, and Lagos, before emptying into the Lekki Lagoon at Imobi via Epe.
Key towns and areas along its path include: - Ipetumodu - Odeomu - Edunabon
It also flows near the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University, and through villages such as: - Eyentanle - Kinkinyiun - Odeyinka - Ogbaagba - Sunmoge
The river is a key part of the Ogun-Osun River Basin, receiving inflows from various tributaries: - River Opa (connecting to the Osun River) - River Owena - River Oni
Its flow is influenced by the humid regional climate, with peak water levels during the rainy season.
Environment
Climate
The region experiences two distinct seasons: - Wet Season: June to October (peak rainfall in July and September) - Dry Season: November to May
Biodiversity
The river hosts: - 121 recorded phytoplankton species - 13 taxonomic groups - Bacillariophyta is the dominant group with 53 species, making up 43.80% of all phytoplankton species.
Pollution
The Shasha River's waters are contaminated with organic materials, reflecting mesosaprobic conditions. This pollution poses a threat to: - The river's ecosystem - Local agriculture and fisheries - The livelihoods of surrounding communities
Significance
Despite environmental challenges, the Shasha River remains a critical natural resource for an estimated 75,000 people in Southwest Nigeria. It supports: - Agriculture - Fishing - Recreation - Domestic water use (drinking and household activities)