The Lagos State Government has assured residents that there is no cause for alarm following the flash flooding experienced in parts of the state on Monday, attributing the situation to an unusually prolonged downpour and the effects of climate change.
Speaking on Tuesday night during the Ask Lagos session on X-Space, the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the government has resilient infrastructure in place to contain any eventuality, while ongoing works in identified flood-prone areas are expected to provide lasting relief.
In his remarks concerning Ijede in Ikorodu Division, Wahab disclosed that a major drainage and flood control contract is currently being executed to address recurrent flooding in the area.
However, he explained that the intensity of the recent rainfall — which lasted over 15 hours in some locations — created undue pressure on the drainage systems.
He said emergency measures, including opening blocked sections to allow water flow, have already been taken to mitigate the situation.
“Lagosians, there is no need to panic, climate issues are real-life issues. I would, however, like to assure all that the government would continue to put in place resilient infrastructure that we need as a state,” Wahab stated.
The Commissioner also urged residents to take responsibility for protecting the environment by refraining from dumping waste into drainage channels, road setbacks, medians, and open spaces.
He encouraged the public to use their assigned PSP operators for proper waste disposal and to “blow the whistle” when they witness environmental infractions.
“I appeal to all Lagosians — say something if you see something. These are simple but important steps we can take to prevent flooding,” he said.
Wahab apologised to residents affected by the flooding, particularly those in Ijede, Agungi in Lekki, and other impacted areas in Ikorodu. He noted that flooding is not peculiar to Lagos, citing recent disasters in Texas, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, China, and parts of Europe.
He stressed that while the government is not making excuses, the reality of global climate change necessitates sustained investment in resilient infrastructure and active citizen participation in environmental protection.
The Commissioner also appealed to property developers and builders to obtain proper drainage clearance from the Ministry before commencing construction.
He warned that illegal structures blocking waterways contribute significantly to flooding, particularly in the Lekki axis, and said the government will intensify its efforts to sanitise the environment while continuing advocacy to reduce harmful human activities that exacerbate flooding.
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