By JKNewsMedia
DEMOLITION OF illegal structures on floodplains across Lagos has begun yielding visible results, according to the state government, which insists the controversial decision helped avert potential flooding disasters as climate threats intensify.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reaffirmed the state’s position during a live broadcast on Channels Television, stating that Lagos had no choice but to take a firm stance against developments on drainage channels and wetlands.
“Floodplains and wetlands are not places we can afford to live. Climate change is a real-life issue,” Wahab said. “Lagos will experience heavy rainfall. We are preparing for it, but the citizens must also take ownership.”
He recounted the early backlash following his appointment, describing resistance to the enforcement actions as politically motivated.
“People had to politicise those actions. I was dog-whistled. I was called a bigot, but today, the results have shown that we took the very hard way to solve what would have become a disaster for our dear state, Lagos.”
The Commissioner explained that coordination between the Ministry of Physical Planning and the Ministry of Environment ensures due diligence through environmental impact assessments and drainage clearance before any construction approval is granted.
However, he revealed that many structures removed did not have official approvals or meet environmental standards.
Wahab used the platform to extend condolences to the people of Mokwa in Niger State, where more than 200 people lost their lives and thousands were displaced by severe flooding last week.
Drawing a parallel to Lagos, he emphasised the importance of proactive urban planning and public compliance with zoning regulations to avoid similar tragedies.
He urged residents to recognise the shared responsibility in protecting Lagos from climate-related hazards.
“They must not see it as a form of punishment that we are removing the contraventions,” he said.
The state government continues to appeal to citizens to avoid building on drainage alignments and flood-prone zones, stressing that such actions not only contravene planning laws but also endanger lives and property as climate events grow more frequent and severe.
