By Igbinosa Rhoda
The Lagos State Government on Wednesday apologised to residents after flash floods swamped parts of the city following heavy rain.
In a statement posted on X, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said, “We sincerely sympathise 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 empathise with those who were affected.”
ACJ UNIBEN gathered that several neighbourhoods including Lekki-Epe Expressway, Ago Palace Way, Apple Junction, Ago Bridge and Mile 2 were submerged, disrupting traffic and business. Videos online showed cars and motorcycles struggling through waterlogged streets.
Wahab said Lagos’s coastal location and the combination of “heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock” made the city naturally vulnerable to flooding, but stressed that the government has been investing in drainage infrastructure, desilting and environmental law enforcement to minimise incidents. He singled out hotspots such as Kusenla and House on the Rock area, blaming “illegal construction on flood plains and dumping of refuse in drains” for worsening the flooding.
He warned that illegal structures and blockages will be removed. “We appeal for understanding and continued cooperation from the public. Keeping our environment clean, refraining from dumping refuse into drains, and avoiding construction on floodplains are vital to achieving a flood-free Lagos. … @followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed,” he added.
The commissioner reaffirmed that drainage projects, including a pumping station at Kusenla, are underway to provide long-term relief.
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