The Lagos State Government has linked Tuesday’s flooding in Lekki to issues such as illegal constructions and indiscriminate waste disposal.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, made this known in a post on his X handle, where he also sympathised with residents affected by the incident.
The heavy rainfall, which began in the early hours of the day, submerged roads, houses, and shops. Vehicles were trapped in floodwaters, and both human and vehicular movement were paralysed for more than seven hours across Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah, and surrounding areas.
Many commuters were stranded until late in the night, with some unable to reach their homes until after 10 pm, while others remained on the road past midnight. Frustrated residents took to social media to lament their ordeal and urged the government to provide lasting solutions.
Responding to the concerns, Tokunbo said the government understood and empathised with residents over the discomfort and disruptions caused by the flash floods in various parts of Lagos.
He explained that Lagos, being a coastal city, is naturally prone to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock. However, he noted that “Despite this, 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.”
Providing further clarification, he added: “We must also provide clarity on some of the affected areas. At Kusenla, the challenge is technical: the downstream is about 1.2 meters higher than the invert of the existing drainage, as confirmed by the survey conducted for the ongoing project awarded by the state government at the end of Kusenla road, which includes a pumping station.”
He continued, “Around the House on the Rock church, the flooding was linked to infractions we highlighted earlier; illegal construction on flood plains and dumping of refuse in drains. These kinds of activities worsen flooding and must stop. 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.”
Tokunbo further stated, “In several of the videos shared yesterday, clear infractions were observed, and @followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed. Including those illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Drainage Clearance.”
He assured residents that “the flooding was a flash flood in some parts of the state and has since receded this morning. The Ministry remains committed to strengthening our flood management systems, but this effort requires the support and responsible actions of all Lagosians.”