The Lagos State Government has apologised to residents affected by flash floods that struck parts of the state and explained the causes of the overflowing on Tuesday.
It was gathered that several areas of the State were heavily impacted by flooding on Wednesday morning as the downpour submerged streets and disrupted movement across the city.
Videos posted by residents on social media show vehicles and motorcycles struggling to pass through the waterlogged roads in areas such as the Lekki-Epe Expressway, Ago Palace Way, including Apple Junction and Ago Bridge, as well as Mile 2.
In a Wednesday statement posted on his X handle, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, sympathises with those who suffered discomfort and disruption.
He 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.”
The commissioner explained that Lagos’s coastal geography, combined with heavy rainfall and tidal lock, makes the city naturally vulnerable to flooding.
“As a coastal city, Lagos is naturally vulnerable to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall combined with tidal lock.
“Despite this, the State Government has continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting, and enforcement of environmental laws to minimise flooding incidents and protect lives and property,” Wahab stated.
Providing clarity on some of the hard-hit areas, he said, “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.
“Around 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.”
Wahab warned that illegal structures contributed to the flood, and they will be removed.
He urged Lagosians to help by keeping drains clear and avoiding construction on floodplains.
“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.
“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.”
The commissioner reiterated the ministry’s commitment to strengthening flood-management systems.
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