The Lagos State government has initiated the removal of structures and shanties located in the setbacks of drainage channels at Lekki Phase 2 and the Ikota Drainage channel.
They are firm in their stance that any unlawful activities will not be tolerated.
This demolition effort is aimed at ensuring that all buildings and shanties that have encroached upon the drainage channels, thereby causing flooding in the area and neighboring communities, are cleared.
The demolition process is taking place in the upscale Lekki areas, specifically on Mobil road and in the Gedegede community.
This action follows the expiration of numerous contravention notices that were served to property owners, who disregarded these notices.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, speaking on behalf of the Sanwo-Olu administration, emphasized that this demolition is a strong statement of their commitment to restoring law and order.
Wahab, represented by Mahmood Adegbite, the Director of Drainage Enforcement and Compliance, pointed out that the government began issuing contravention notices as early as 2000 when these structures were still in their foundation stages.
Despite numerous suggestions from the government to prevent flooding, the property owners were uncooperative, even going so far as to fill the setbacks with sand in preparation for further construction.
Adegbite stressed the role of both natural forces and human actions in causing flooding.
He mentioned that one of the contributing factors is building on floodplains and within the designated right of way for drainages.
The approved right of way is 15 meters, but due to the high-density nature of the area, it had been reduced to 10 meters.
Property owners not only built within this right of way but also obstructed the waterway, reducing it from 15 to a mere three meters.
The drainage channel extends approximately four kilometers, and after the demolition, the government plans to ensure its proper maintenance, including dredging and widening.
Adegbite urged all prospective property owners to cooperate with the government and seek guidance before embarking on any construction projects to avoid future disputes.
In conclusion, this action serves as a warning to others who may have engaged in similar activities in different locations.
It emphasizes that actions have consequences, and the government is committed to upholding the law and order for the greater good of the majority.
