Warns Developers Against Encroachment, Reaffirms Commitment to Flood Control
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to immediately remove all illegal structures obstructing canals and drainage channel right of way in Agungi, Ajiran and Ikota as part of ongoing efforts to tackle flooding across the state.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this on Sunday after inspecting critical drainage infrastructure and flood mitigation projects in Lekki, Agungi, Ikota and Ajiran.
The inspection followed persistent flooding in Agungi despite the completion of major drainage projects in the area more than two years ago.
According to the Commissioner, the inspection uncovered a major obstruction at the Ajiran outfall channel, where a land-owning family allegedly blocked the drainage outlet leading into the Lagos Lagoon. He explained that the blockage has prevented stormwater from flowing freely into the lagoon, significantly reducing the effectiveness of the drainage system and contributing to recurring floods.
Wahab directed that the channel be reopened immediately, stressing that while the government respects legitimate land ownership, no individual or group has the right to obstruct public drainage infrastructure or natural waterways.
He also revealed that illegal reclamation and construction activities were discovered at Megamond Estate in Ikota, where some developers allegedly encroached on part of the Ikota River and commenced developments without obtaining the necessary environmental and drainage approvals.
The Commissioner warned that enforcement operations would begin immediately, with all illegal structures built on reclaimed drainage alignments set for removal.
He reiterated that developers undertaking projects involving wetlands or water bodies must obtain an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and other required environmental approvals before commencing construction.
Wahab urged residents to support the government’s flood control efforts by reporting environmental violations, noting that whistleblower reports played a key role in identifying the illegal activities uncovered during the inspection.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to protecting lives, property and public infrastructure through strict enforcement of environmental laws and sustained investment in resilient drainage systems.
The inspection was attended by the Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji; Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite; Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin; Executive Secretary of LASWARCO, Mrs. Adebukola Adeyemo; KAI Marshal, Major Olatunbosun Cole; and other senior officials.