Commissioner Responds to Criticism Over Recent Flooding
The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has accused critics of politicising recent flooding in the state, asserting that government interventions have significantly reduced the impact of heavy rainfall despite challenges posed by climate change. Wahab made the remarks on Saturday during an inspection of drainage channels and flood-prone areas, including Oniru, Chevron Drive, Agungi-Ajiran, Freedom Road, and Orange Island.
His comments followed flash floods earlier in the week that submerged parts of Lagos and sparked criticism of the state’s flood management efforts.
Ongoing Flood Mitigation Efforts
Wahab highlighted ongoing efforts such as clearing encroachments along drainage channels, banning Styrofoam and certain plastics, reclaiming wetlands, and expanding drainage infrastructure. He noted that improvements were already visible after government officials overcame resistance from land grabbers around Chevron Drive.
“Yes, they are politicising it, but that is what they want to do this season. They are not giving this team enough flowers for the work they have been doing. I know the effort they put in day and night,” Wahab said.
Comparison With Other Cities
The commissioner added that Lagos had taken proactive steps compared to other cities, citing Accra’s recent flooding and noting that Ghana was only beginning to adopt measures Lagos implemented three years ago.
Warnings Against Illegal Land Reclamation
Wahab also warned against illegal land reclamation projects that block discharge points into the lagoon, describing them as irresponsible. He stressed that the government was working with local councils to provide permanent engineering solutions and would continue prosecuting offenders caught dumping waste indiscriminately.
Planned Infrastructure Upgrades
Wahab revealed that the state plans to deploy 140–150 additional waste compactors and accelerate the transition to waste recovery systems, which he said would reduce pressure on drainage infrastructure and improve flood management.
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