Ongoing Demolition In Lekki Not Targeted At Any Tribe – Lagos Govt

The Lagos State Government has clarified that the ongoing demolition of buildings in the Ikota area of Lekki is not targeted at any specific tribe, ethnic group, or community, but is a necessary move to restore natural water channels and reduce flooding in the area.

This clarification was made on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, in response to concerns raised by some residents regarding the government’s enforcement actions.

According to Wahab, the properties being removed were constructed on the right of way of the Ikota River, obstructing major drainage systems and contributing to the persistent flooding that plagues parts of Lekki and Ajah.

“The truth is simple: water and hazards know no tribe, colour, or race,” Wahab said in a post on X.

“The buildings being removed were erected on the right of way of Ikota River , directly obstructing natural channels and worsening flash flooding in the area; especially the Lekki – Ajah corridor (System 156, 157, 44, 44A, and 46).”

He explained that notices were served earlier in 2025 to affected property owners after an inspection of the river setback alignment areas. He stressed that the demolitions are strictly limited to structures encroaching on critical drainage channels and water bodies.

“Only structures within the right of way are being removed. Our goal is to restore the waterways, reduce flooding, and protect lives,” he added.

Wahab emphasised that the government’s approach remains firm but empathetic, as officials continue to engage with residents.

However, he warned that non-compliance with environmental laws would not be overlooked, regardless of who is involved.

“We will continue to engage residents with empathy, but non-compliance will not be overlooked irrespective of whom is affected,” Wahab stated.

The Commissioner also urged the public to support the government’s efforts in addressing flooding and environmental challenges, rather than misinterpreting enforcement actions as being discriminatory or politically motivated.

“This is about safeguarding everyone, not targeting anyone. The recent flooding on the Island calls for our collective support for finding a permanent solution to those issues. We cannot keep complaining about an issue and still attack the government for providing a solution to said issue.

“It is all for a #CleanerLagos and a #GreaterLagos,” Wahab said.

THE WHISTLER reported that last Friday, the government 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.

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.

This follows widespread flooding that crippled economic activities in Lekki last Tuesday occasioned by heavy rainfall.

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

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