The Lagos State Government has sympathized with residents affected by flash floods in parts of the state on Monday, assuring that measures are being taken to address the recurring challenge.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, in a statement on Tuesday, said the government understands the discomfort and disruption caused by the floods and deeply empathizes with residents who were affected.
He explained that as a coastal city, Lagos is naturally prone to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock. Despite this, Wahab said the state has continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting and enforcement of environmental laws to reduce flooding and safeguard lives and property.
Providing clarity on specific areas, the commissioner noted that the flooding around Kusenla was due to a technical issue. According to him, a survey for an ongoing project revealed that the downstream was about 1.2 meters higher than the invert of the existing drainage, necessitating the construction of a pumping station at the end of Kusenla Road.
Wahab added that flooding around House on the Rock Church was linked to infractions, including illegal construction on floodplains and indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains. He warned that such activities worsen flooding and would no longer be tolerated.
“In several of the videos shared yesterday, clear infractions were observed, and the state will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed, including illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Drainage Clearance,” he said.
The commissioner appealed for residents’ cooperation, stressing the need to keep the environment clean, stop dumping refuse in drains, and avoid construction on floodplains.
He further assured that the flash floods recorded in some parts of the state had receded by Tuesday morning, noting that the ministry remains committed to strengthening Lagos’ flood management systems.
“Together, we can build a safer, cleaner, and more resilient Lagos,” Wahab added.