Lagos Commissioner Issues Warning to Property Owners Over Encroachments on Drainage Setbacks
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, Tokunbo Wahab, has given a seven-day contravention notice to owners of buildings situated along Orchid Road, Agungi, Ajiran, Conservation Road, and Osapa, all along the Ikota River. The announcement was made following an inspection tour by Wahab and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, to assess compliance with the approved seven-metre setback on both sides of the Ikota River channel.
The directive aims to curb encroachments that have led to distortions in the natural habitat along Orchid Road, impacting drainage channels designed to redirect stormwater into the Lagoon. Wahab emphasized the importance of adhering to the State Drainage Master Plan to prevent property demolitions.
Wahab noted that the government had previously reviewed the setback alignment from the original seven metres to six metres after discussions with property owners to minimize the impact on structures. The Commissioner stressed that the enforcement of regulations is crucial to avoiding flooding caused by unauthorized constructions.
During the inspection, Wahab issued a stop-work order to Gravitas company, responsible for Grace Ville Island & Pocket Island on Chevron Drive, for unauthorized sand filling of Ikota River, reducing the lagoon’s size and posing a threat to water flow. He underscored the danger of narrowing the natural path of water, stating that such actions could lead to the creation of alternative paths, endangering communities.
In addition to the enforcement, Wahab supervised the demolition of shanties on Thompson Avenue, responding to security concerns raised by residents. He urged all squatters to relocate, emphasizing the state’s commitment to eliminating shanties and environmental infractions.
The Special Adviser on Environment highlighted the comprehensive efforts undertaken by the Lagos State government, including year-round cleaning, dredging of drainage channels, and constructing new drainages. He urged citizens and communities to actively participate in environmental maintenance and sustainable practices.
Source: PUNCH
PC: Tokunbo Wahab X handle
