The Lagos State Government has announced plans to remove illegal structures obstructing drainage channels and canals in Agungi, Ajiran and Ikota as part of efforts to tackle flooding and protect critical public infrastructure.
Eko Hot News reports that the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement after inspecting key drainage infrastructure and flood control projects across Lekki, Agungi, Ikota and Ajiran.
The inspection followed persistent complaints of flooding in Agungi despite the completion of major drainage projects in the area more than two years ago.
During the tour, the commissioner disclosed that officials discovered a major blockage at the Ajiran outfall channel, which had disrupted the free flow of stormwater into the Lagos Lagoon.
According to Wahab, the obstruction was traced to a land-owning family that blocked the primary drainage outlet serving the surrounding communities.
He explained that the drainage system was designed to discharge floodwater directly into the lagoon through gravity, adding that any obstruction weakens the effectiveness of the entire network.
The commissioner directed that the blocked channel be reopened immediately in the interest of public safety and flood prevention.
Wahab stressed that while the government respects legitimate land ownership and Certificates of Occupancy, no property owner has the right to obstruct public drainage infrastructure or natural waterways.
He maintained that restoring the drainage alignment is necessary to protect thousands of residents from avoidable flooding.
According to the commissioner, Agungi and Ajiran rely heavily on a dedicated drainage channel that conveys stormwater through Chevron Drive into the Lagos Lagoon.
He noted that blocking such channels exposes communities to flooding despite significant government investment in drainage infrastructure.
Wahab urged residents to avoid activities that interfere with drainage systems, saying public infrastructure must be preserved for the benefit of everyone.
During the inspection, officials also visited Megamond Estate in Ikota, where parts of the Ikota River were allegedly reclaimed without obtaining the required environmental approvals.
The commissioner said investigations revealed that some structures were erected on reclaimed drainage alignments without government authorisation.
He disclosed that enforcement and abatement notices had earlier been issued to the developers but were not complied with.
Consequently, the Lagos State Government announced that illegal structures built within the drainage right of way would be removed without delay.
Wahab reaffirmed that every development involving wetlands, waterways or reclamation projects must obtain the appropriate Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Wetland Clearance before construction begins.
He explained that environmental assessments help determine the impact of projects on surrounding ecosystems while ensuring sustainable urban development.
According to him, the Ministry operates an integrated approval process that considers drainage, environmental protection and wetland preservation before granting approvals.
The commissioner warned developers against commencing construction before obtaining statutory permits, noting that the government would continue to enforce environmental regulations across the state.
He added that attempts to regularise unauthorised developments after construction would not excuse violations of existing environmental laws.
Wahab appealed to residents to support government efforts by reporting blocked drainage channels, illegal reclamation and other environmental infractions.
He noted that information provided by whistleblowers played a vital role in identifying the illegal activities uncovered during the inspection.
The commissioner assured Lagos residents that the state government remains committed to reducing flood risks through continuous investment in drainage infrastructure and strict enforcement of environmental regulations.
He reiterated that protecting lives, property and public assets remains a top priority, adding that compliance with environmental laws is essential to building a safer and more resilient Lagos.
