The Lagos State Government has announced its intention to commence enforcement operations in Apapa to reclaim the three-meter drainage Right of Way for all drainage channels.
The move comes after notices expired and stakeholder meetings were held with property owners to voluntarily relocate their fences encroaching on the drainage setback earlier in the year.
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, made this known during an inspection tour aimed at assessing compliance levels. He emphasized the need to address the blocked collectors in Apapa to facilitate the evacuation and treatment of the drainage system, which has been obstructed by individuals encroaching on the Right of Way.
Wahab expressed concern over the conversion of residential areas into illegal depots, citing a specific instance on Rock Drive in Lekki I. He highlighted the risk of a potential fire outbreak posed by such activities and called for immediate enforcement to prevent further hazards.
In alignment with efforts to maintain a flood-free environment, Wahab urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal practices. Additionally, Mr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, the Special Adviser on Environment, reiterated the government’s commitment to finding realistic solutions to the flooding challenges faced across the state.
The enforcement operations underscore the government’s proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Lagos State.
