Flood: Lagos threatens to demolish houses in Lekki, Ikoyi

The Lagos state government has ordered owners of buildings on drainage channels in Lekki and Ikoyi to immediately move or risk being removed.

In a statement on Sunday, Babatunde Adejare, state commissioner for environment, said the lawless activities of some people constantly endangers the lives and property of residents.

Adejare said the state government was concerned that man-made causes have greatly contributed to the recent incidents of flooding in the state.

Other areas where buildings are said to have been erected on drainage channels are Illubirin, Dolphin estate, Osborne Foreshore estate, Osapa London, Ikota and Ogombo.

He also said the massive investment of public fund into drainage clearing and de-silting “had been compromised by structures hindering the free-flow of water”.

“Therefore, it is now of paramount importance that owners of buildings or structures impeding the free-flow of storm water, wherever they exist in the state, are advised to voluntarily quit forthwith in the overriding public interest or risk being removed by the state government as no responsible government will allow the interest of a few to jeopardise the wellness and well-being of the generality of its people,” the statement read.

“In view of the grievous consequences of compromising drainage right of way and alignment, Lagosians are hereby warned to henceforth refrain from this illegal act, report perpetrators and cooperate with the Lagos state Government in its bid to achieve a flood-free, clean and livable state.”

Adejare further said the state government has resolved to reestablish the right of way of drainage infrastructure across the state in a bid to stem the tide of flooding.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Lagosians are once again reminded that the right of way for primary unlined (without concrete) channel is 25 meters and 15 meters for primary lined (with concrete) channel, while the right of way for secondary/connector channel is seven meters. The right of way for tertiary channel is three meters from the fence of the house,” he added.