The Lagos State Government is doubling down on enforcement measures to restore drainage alignments across the state. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, affirmed the government’s commitment to this cause, emphasising the goal of preventing flooding by reinstating setbacks and drainage alignments.
Wahab led a high-profile delegation from the ministry on an inspection of several enforcement sites, including Dodan Barracks, Norman Williams Road, the Bucknor Oke-Afa channel in Oshodi/Isolo Local Government, and Magodo.
He stressed that the enforcement exercise would be ongoing, highlighting the ministry’s consistent efforts to ensure a flood-free state. “We’re a public-facing ministry, and our officers are continuously on the field. That’s why I lead from the front,” Wahab remarked.
Accompanied by officials like Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji, Wahab emphasized the administration’s commitment to promoting a flood-free Lagos through robust enforcement measures.
Discussing the situation at the Oke Afa/Bucknor location, where buildings obstructed drainage setbacks, Wahab explained that legal obstacles had initially hindered enforcement. However, with the case dismissed, the ministry could proceed to reclaim setbacks for the common good.
Expressing regret over houses built without drainage clearance, Wahab noted how these constructions obstructed natural water paths, blaming government inaction regarding flooding.
The team also assessed Dodan Barracks/Norman Williams Channel for compliance with setback enforcement and outlined plans for desilting blocked collectors affecting the State House.
Wahab urged proper land assessment before construction and highlighted the upcoming deployment of equipment to clear channels towards the lagoon.
At Amuwo Odofin, Wahab inspected a sewage treatment plant slated to serve residents, resolving joint usage concerns and planning to transition the facility to the Waste Water Agency.
Visiting the Magodo Wetland site, Wahab directed the installation of warning signs to deter encroachment and construction on the wetland, aiming to prevent a recurrence of flooding seen in other areas.
Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, emphasised the government’s determination to prevent flooding-induced losses, stressing the need for collective efforts to maintain a flood-free and sustainable environment in Lagos.
