FLOOD: Lagos Begins Demolition Of Buildings Blocking Water Flow In Lekki

The Lagos State Government on Friday began the demolition of buildings obstructing the free flow of stormwater along the Ikota River alignment in Lekki, within the Eti-Osa Local Government Area.

According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the exercise is part of efforts to prevent recurrent flooding in the area.

The demolition exercise is being carried out by operatives from the Drainage Enforcement and Compliance Department of the state Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.

“Operatives from Drainage Enforcement and Compliance Department of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources on Friday commenced the removal of contravening structures blocking the free flow of stormwater along Ikota River alignment, Lekki, Eti-osa, to prevent perennial flooding in the area,” Wahab stated in a post on X.

THE WHISTLER reports that economic activities were crippled in Lekki on Tuesday following the widespread flooding that occurred due to heavy rainfall.

Videos circulating on social media showed cars submerged in water, with some motorists forced to abandon their vehicles as roads became impassable.

Many residents reportedly didn’t get home until after midnight, while others prayed their cars wouldn’t break down as floodwaters rose to knee level.

Reacting to the incident, former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, called out the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over what he described as years of failed leadership and poor infrastructure in the state.

“My heart goes out to all the people that would be spending their hard earned money on car repairs and house repairs at such a difficult time in Nigeria and with school fees and other bills pending,” Rhodes-Vivour said on X.

He lamented the recurring nature of flooding in Lagos, accusing the APC-led government of offering nothing but excuses for over two decades.

“The APC Lagos have tried their best for over 20 years, every year they give you a different excuse, they have tried, they have failed, It is time to try something different. You deserve better , you can have better,” he stated.

Tuesday’s flooding also affected several institutions and public spaces, including a prominent Pentecostal church in the area.

In a statement on Wednesday, the state government sympathised with those affected by the incident.

“We sincerely sympathise with all residents who were affected by the flash floods witnessed in parts of the State yesterday. We understand the discomfort and disruption it caused and we deeply empathize with those who were affected.

“As a coastal city, Lagos is naturally vulnerable to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock. Despite this, the State Government has continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting, and enforcement of environmental laws to minimize flooding incidents and protect lives and property,” the statement issued by Wahab read.

The government appealed for understanding and continued cooperation from the public, urging residents to keep their environment clean, refrain from dumping refuse into drains, and avoid construction on floodplains areas.

“In several of the videos shared yesterday, clear infractions were observed, and @followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed. Including those illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Drainage Clearance,” Wahab added.