The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing and restoring the right-of-way of all drainage channels in the state, with no exceptions.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, made this clear during an on-site inspection of various drainage channels on Wednesday.
He emphasized the government’s resolve to reverse environmental degradation caused by unauthorized structures and activities, and highlighted the ongoing restoration projects aimed at making Lagos flood-free, with contracts already awarded for this purpose.
“The governor has awarded contract for the restoration of some critical projects on this axis around Ishashi, Oke-Odan, where we have witnessed people purposely building on the channel.
“They have been served notices; so we have to start enforcement along with the contractor who is ready to move to site,” Wahab said.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab announced that enforcement of drainage channel restorations would begin on September 5, as contravention notices issued to affected parties had expired.
He emphasized that the law would be strictly enforced, citing examples of illegal structures built on the System 40 drainage channel in Ojo Local Government Area, which had caused flooding.
Wahab reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring the required 7-meter drainage setback on all channels, except for the Alaba International Market outfall, where the standard 15-meter right-of-way would be enforced.
However, the local House of Assembly member, Mr. Olusegun Ege, suggested a more flexible approach, proposing a setback of less than 10 meters.
“This is just to let people know we are not dropping the ball and the weather has been very favourable so we have no excuse than to just move to the site.
“We will clean up the drains and restore the right-of-way and then take ownership of the public infrastructure.
“The development of any city is a deliberate plan; it is not magical, things will not happen unless the plan is enforced,” Wahab said.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab emphasized that the ministry would continue to sensitize and advocate for the restoration of drainage channels, and would not hesitate to enforce the law when necessary.
He warned developers and homeowners to respect public infrastructure, such as drainage channels, to avoid encroachment and potential consequences.
Special Adviser Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu lamented the irresponsible practices of some developers and business owners, who convert right-of-way areas into building land, putting other properties at risk.
He urged residents to support the government’s efforts to make Lagos a safe, clean, and sustainable city. Chief Nnamdi Amajioyi, President-General of Alaba International Market, pledged cooperation with the government to find a lasting solution to flooding issues in the area.
The commissioner’s entourage, including Permanent Secretary Mahamood Adegbite and other officials, visited several sites, including primary channels in Isheri, Ojo Town, Alaba International Market, and Ojo Local Government Area, to assess and address drainage challenges.
