Video: Lagos prolongs removal notification for Ikota River setback encroachments

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Lagos State Government has prolonged the removal notification for property owners with structures located near the Ikota River setback areas, particularly in Oral Estate, Westend, Megamounds, and Lekki County, after conducting an official inspection of these regions.

This information was conveyed by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, following the inspection of the affected locations.

Wahab highlighted that the extension should not be viewed as a weakness but rather as a show of empathy towards families that need additional time to relocate. He reiterated the government’s pledge to restore the Right of Way as part of its efforts to mitigate flooding and protect lives and property in the State.

In a post on his X (formally Twitter) handle, the commissioner stated that only structures within the River path would be removed.

He wrote, “Following our inspection of the Ikota River setback areas—Oral Estate, Westend, Megamounds, and Lekki County; we’ve extended the removal notice for affected homeowners, not out of weakness, but compassion.

“While we remain committed to restoring the Right of Way to address flooding and protect lives, we also understand that families need time to relocate.

“This is why we’re allowing some grace before enforcement begins. Only structures clearly within the river’s path will be removed, and we will continue to engage residents with empathy while holding non-compliant home owners accountable.”