The Lagos State Government on Wednesday intensified its campaign against illegal construction on drainage channels with the demolition of structures along Ologborogan Olusesi Street, off Orchid Road, in Eti-Osa Local Government Area.
The state’s Drainage Enforcement and Compliance (DEC) team carried out the operation as part of ongoing efforts to mitigate flooding in flood-prone communities.
Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who announced the exercise via his official X handle, explained that the affected buildings were erected illegally on designated drainage alignments. He stressed that such encroachments obstruct the free flow of stormwater and heighten the risk of recurrent flooding in the area.
“The removal of these contravening structures is critical to protecting lives and properties in the community,” Wahab stated.
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He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to enforce compliance with environmental laws, warning residents and developers against erecting buildings on natural watercourses and drainage setbacks.
The state government has in recent months stepped up demolitions of properties blocking drainage infrastructure across Lagos, with officials maintaining that strict enforcement is vital to safeguarding the metropolis from perennial flooding.
