Lagos Government Reaffirms Commitment to Restoring Drainage Channels, Begins Enforcement on Illegal Structures....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Lagos State Government has announced its unwavering stance on enforcing the restoration of right-of-way for all drainage channels across the state. The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, reaffirmed this commitment during an on-site assessment of drainage channels on Wednesday.

Wahab highlighted the state’s determination to rectify environmental infractions that have drastically altered the landscape, especially in flood-prone areas. He revealed that contracts have been awarded for critical restoration projects, specifically in areas such as Ishashi and Oke-Odan, to address illegal structures that have obstructed drainage channels.

Enforcement to Begin September 5

“The governor has awarded contracts for the restoration of some critical projects on this axis around Ishashi, Oke-Odan, where we have witnessed people purposely building on the channel,” Wahab stated. He confirmed that contravention notices had been served to individuals encroaching on drainage paths, and enforcement would commence on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

The commissioner noted that illegal structures built along System 40 drainage channel in Ojo Local Government Area had severely narrowed the primary channel, contributing to frequent flooding in the region. He stressed that the government would enforce the restoration of the standard seven-metre drainage setback, with plans to restore a 15-metre setback at the Alaba International Market outfall.

Despite this, local House of Assembly representative, Mr. Olusegun Ege, advocated for a smaller setback of less than 10 metres. Wahab, however, maintained that the government would not compromise on ensuring the safety and sustainability of the city’s infrastructure.

Call for Cooperation and Compliance

Wahab assured residents that the weather conditions had been favorable for moving forward with the project. “We will clean up the drains and restore the right-of-way, then take ownership of the public infrastructure,” he explained. He reiterated that urban development requires deliberate planning and enforcement, and the government will continue to take necessary actions to preserve public spaces.

The commissioner also advised property developers and homeowners to avoid encroaching on public infrastructure such as drainage channels, warning that the government would eventually take action to reclaim its properties.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Mr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, echoed Wahab’s sentiments, expressing disappointment at developers and business owners who have illegally converted right-of-way into private property. He emphasized the dangers posed to other property owners and urged residents to support the government’s efforts to create a safe, clean, and flood-free Lagos.

Collaboration with Market Authorities

During the tour, the President-General of Alaba International Market, Chief Nnamdi Amajioyi, pledged the cooperation of market executives in resolving the flooding issues. He expressed optimism that implementing the government’s plans would finally address the market’s long-standing flood problems.

The inspection tour also included key officials such as the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services, Mr. Mahamood Adegbite, as well as heads of agencies and directors. The team visited various locations, including the Isheri/Aiyetoro/Ologe Primary Channel, Ojo Town, and several channels in Alaba Rago and Alaba International Market.