Lagos urges public cooperation to prevent recurrence of flash floods
Lagos urges public cooperation to prevent recurrence of flash floods
Abdullateef Fowewe
Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has addressed the recent flash floods that affected parts of the city, expressing sympathy and emphasising ongoing government efforts to manage flooding risks.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Wahab said, “We sincerely sympathize with all residents who were affected by the flash floods witnessed in parts of the State yesterday.
“We understand the discomfort and disruption it caused and we deeply empathize with those who were affected.”
He explained Lagos’s vulnerability to flooding, stating, “As a coastal city, Lagos is naturally vulnerable to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock.”
Despite this challenge, the government remains proactive, “The State Government has continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting, and enforcement of environmental laws to minimize flooding incidents and protect lives and property.”
Wahab provided specific insights into affected areas, noting technical and human factors, “At Kusenla, the challenge is technical: the downstream is about 1.2 meters higher than the invert of the existing drainage… which includes a pumping station.”
Regarding flooding near House on the Rock church, he attributed the problem to “illegal construction on flood plains and dumping of refuse in drains,” practices that “worsen flooding and must stop.”
The Commissioner urged public cooperation, highlighting that “Keeping our environment clean, refraining from dumping refuse into drains, and avoiding construction on floodplains are vital to achieving a flood-free Lagos.”
He also warned that “@followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed,” including “illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Drainage Clearance.”
Reflecting on the current situation, Wahab assured residents that “the flooding was a flash flood in some parts of the State and has since receded this morning.”
He concluded with a call for collective responsibility, “The Ministry remains committed to strengthening our flood management systems, but this effort requires the support and responsible actions of all Lagosians. Together, we can build a safer, cleaner, and more resilient Lagos.”
