The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has issued a seven-day contravention notice to owners of buildings along Orchid Road, Agungi, Ajiran, Conservation Road, Osapa bordering the Ikota River.
According to the Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Kunle Adesina, Wahab announced the notice after an extensive inspection tour of the Ikota River corridor.
Wahab emphasised the need for compliance with the State Drainage Master Plan and warned of imminent property demolition if setbacks are not maintained as stipulated.
“We cannot keep lampooning the government for flooding when developers, builders & residents are the main cause of flooding. We shall continue to enforce it because that is why laws are made. Without law and order, there cannot be development; enough of this bad behaviour,” Wahab stated firmly.
The inspection tour aimed to verify compliance with the approved setbacks, particularly the seven metres required on both sides of the channel, following complaints from the Nigerian Conservation Foundation about distortions affecting natural habitats and drainage channels.
The commissioner highlighted the reduction of setback alignment from seven to six metres after consultations with property owners to mitigate the number of affected structures. He expressed concerns about encroachments reducing the original size of the Ikota River channel.
Wahab also issued a stop work order to a company for sand filling part of the Ikota River, warning against obstructing natural water paths, as such actions could lead to dangerous consequences.
Moreover, the commissioner supervised the demolition of shanties on Thompson Avenue, citing security risks posed by suspicious activities, and emphasised the state’s determination to rid itself of environmental infractions.
He urged citizens to participate fully in governance and environmental maintenance to ensure sustainable development and a cleaner, safer Lagos.
