The Lagos State Government issued a call for calm on Wednesday in response to flash floods caused by continuous rainfall across the state since early morning.
In a statement, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, explained that Lagos had experienced approximately nine hours of uninterrupted rainfall since the early hours of the day.
This rainfall, coupled with heavy downpours observed daily since last week, has led to a rise in the water level of the Lagos lagoon.
Wahab clarified that the flash floods affecting areas like Iyana Oworo, which connects to the Third Mainland Bridge, and several other locations, will subside once the rains diminish and the lagoon’s water level decreases.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the state has deployed officials from the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang to critical locations, including Iyana Oworo, where blockages have been cleared.
He urged residents in low-lying areas to relocate to higher ground promptly to ensure the safety of lives and properties during this period.
He also cautioned residents against driving through flooded areas with their vehicles, noting that even a foot of flowing water during high tide could easily sweep away a vehicle, regardless of the number of occupants.
The Commissioner advised residents to stay updated with daily weather reports issued by the State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, as these reports serve as a guide for planning daily activities.
He emphasized that Lagos, being a coastal city with nearly one third of its landmass submerged in water, requires all residents to be more vigilant about environmental conditions.
Wahab reiterated that the State Government has initiated a yearlong program to maintain and clean all secondary and primary drainage systems to manage runoff effectively during heavy rainfall.
Furthermore, he urged residents to regularly clean and maintain the tertiary drains in front of their homes and refrain from dumping refuse into drains, emphasizing the collective responsibility for the well-being of all residents.