The Lagos State Government has announced a renewed crackdown on drainage encroachment and other environmental infractions in the Lekki axis, as part of measures to reduce flooding and safeguard critical water infrastructure.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this while leading an inspection of ongoing drainage projects and flood-prone areas across Ogombo, Lake Embankment, Ikate, Mobil area, Mobil Road, Kusenla and adjoining communities.
Wahab said the inspection followed intelligence reports indicating attempts to tamper with major drainage alignments, particularly System 46, warning that such actions could have serious implications for the Ikota River corridor.
According to him, whistleblower information revealed encroachment on System 46, prompting the government to install signposts to clearly demarcate the drainage alignment and prevent further interference.
“Any reduction or tampering with this system will eventually affect the Ikota River. That is why we are moving in to protect the alignment,” Wahab said.
At System 44, the commissioner recalled that previous contraventions had been removed from the drainage alignment two years ago, noting that contractors were still actively working on the site. He explained that persistent flooding along Mobil Road was linked to temporary damming of drainage sections to facilitate construction activities.
“We have directed the contractor to hasten work so the dammed sections can be cleared. About 800 metres remain on both the upstream and downstream sections leading to the Ikota River,” he added.
Wahab further revealed that the state government had expanded the project scope beyond drainage construction to include the installation of a pump station aimed at improving flood discharge capacity.
“This is our third visit here. Based on developments in the area, including the regional road project, we approved additional electro-mechanical works and a pump station to effectively manage flooding,” he said.
Expressing concern over illegal sand-filling, wetland encroachment along Mobil Road and the proliferation of shanties along the Coastal Road corridor, Wahab said the government would erect signposts to protect wetland alignments.
He added that the state would collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Works to address illegal occupation along the Coastal Road, describing uncontrolled settlements near conservation areas as a threat to both environmental sustainability and security.
Wahab also raised alarm over open burning observed behind conservation zones, warning that such activities could endanger wildlife habitats.
On project timelines, the commissioner explained that while the drainage works were originally planned for 24 months, the addition of new components could extend completion by about 12 months.
Speaking on Lagos’ readiness for the 2026 rainy season, Wahab acknowledged the impact of climate change, citing persistent rainfall in recent months.
“The rain has not stopped. Climate change is real, and our duty is to provide resilient infrastructure, continue advocacy and ensure residents take ownership of public facilities,” he said.
He urged residents to desist from activities that undermine public infrastructure, assuring that the Lagos State Government would continue to enforce environmental laws to protect lives, property and sustainable development.