By Our Reporter
The Lagos State Government is set to begin the removal of illegal structures and extensions obstructing drainage channels and public infrastructure in the Oke-Arin and Apongbon Market areas on Lagos Island starting Tuesday.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, made the announcement during an inspection on Sunday. He also revealed that four buildings under construction in the Alakoro and Ereko Market areas had been sealed for obstructing traffic and violating environmental regulations.
Wahab stated that the enforcement action was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal developments and ensure adherence to physical planning laws. “We are assessing compliance with the notices issued last Thursday. By Tuesday, we will begin the full removal of structures blocking public infrastructure in Oke-Arin and Apongbon,” he said.
The Commissioner criticized the ongoing illegal activities, highlighting the dangers posed by the obstruction of drainage systems. “Building materials are being placed on drainage channels, and mixers and cement are on the roads, leading to damage. In a few weeks, these roads will deteriorate, and people will begin blaming the government,” Wahab added.
This enforcement follows a 24-hour notice issued last Thursday to traders and property owners whose illegal structures were obstructing drainage channels in the area.
Wahab further explained that the government’s commitment to improving Lagos Island’s drainage and road infrastructure had been hindered by these illegal structures. “Shanties blocking critical drainage systems such as the Olusi Bombata Collector and Alagbafo have caused severe flooding. This must end, and we will clear these structures immediately,” he stressed.
The inspection team included Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Femi Afolabi, General Manager of LASWAMO, and other senior officials.