The Lagos State Government has issued a strong advisory to residents in low-lying, flood-prone areas to temporarily relocate as heavy rainfall continues to trigger flash floods across the state.
The warning came from the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, during a live broadcast on Tuesday evening, monitored by Dreportorialmedia. Wahab stressed that the flooding situation was anticipated based on earlier forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which had warned of increased rainfall this year.
“NiMet had already given us early warnings in March. By April, we began our public sensitisation, and in the past three months, we have issued no fewer than five advisories to Lagosians,” Wahab explained.
He attributed the worsening flood situation to Lagos’ geographic location and the intensity of recent rains. “We’re expecting more rainfall this year compared to last year,” he said. “Residents on the lowlands must consider relocating to higher ground until the rains subside.”
The commissioner also highlighted government efforts to curb the impact of the floods, including year-round operations by the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang and extensive clearing of drainage channels. “We’ve constructed about 50 kilometers of secondary drainage collectors and 38 kilometers of primary channels within two years,” Wahab noted.
He pointed out that some of the flash flooding, particularly in parts of Ikorodu such as Ejede, Gberigbe, and Okeletu, was caused by technical setbacks from ongoing construction projects. In these areas, water flow was obstructed when a contractor dammed the downstream area without anticipating the heavy downpour.
Additionally, Wahab identified areas like the Lekki Corridor as especially vulnerable due to their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Lagos Lagoon. “When the tidal level rises, it blocks stormwater from draining naturally, causing what we call a ‘lock-up’ that results in flash floods,” he said. “The rain that fell for about 15 to 16 hours straight yesterday triggered such a situation.”
He also emphasized the role of residents in flood prevention, urging them to stop dumping waste in drainages and on road medians. “Improper waste disposal worsens flooding. Everyone must take responsibility,” Wahab warned.
Concluding his address, the commissioner acknowledged that Lagos, being a coastal city with a significant portion of its landmass below sea level, is naturally susceptible to flooding. However, he assured that the government remains committed to mitigating the situation and called on the public to cooperate.
In recent days, several parts of Lagos have been submerged, leaving commuters stranded and homes inundated. Despite the challenges, the state government reiterated its resolve to manage the crisis and reduce the risks of further disasters.
