Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by top government officials, on Tuesday visited communities severely impacted by recent flooding in the Ikorodu and Epe areas of the state. The governor assured residents that the state government is fully committed to providing relief and implementing measures to mitigate future occurrences.
Governor Assesses Damage, Pledges Immediate Relief
During the visit, Governor Sanwo-Olu inspected several affected neighborhoods, including Ebute, Majidun, and Agbowa, where floodwaters have submerged homes and disrupted livelihoods. He expressed empathy with the victims, stating, “We are here to see the extent of the damage and to let you know that the government is with you in this difficult time. We will not abandon you.”
The governor directed the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to expedite the distribution of relief materials, including food, clean water, and medical supplies, to affected families. He also instructed the Ministry of Environment to assess the drainage systems and identify areas requiring urgent desilting and expansion.
Residents Share Harrowing Experiences
Many residents recounted their ordeals, with some losing property worth millions of naira. A resident of Ebute, Mrs. Funmi Adebayo, said, “The water came in suddenly while we were asleep. We had to climb onto our rooftops to escape. We have lost everything.” Another victim, Mr. Tunde Ogunlana, noted that the flooding has become a recurring nightmare, calling on the government to address the root causes.
Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the residents' frustrations, saying, “We understand your pain, and we are working on long-term solutions. Our administration is committed to sustainable urban planning and flood control.” He added that the state government has allocated funds for the construction of additional drainage channels and the clearing of waterways.
Government Outlines Mitigation Strategies
The Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, who was part of the delegation, explained that the flooding was exacerbated by heavy rainfall and the blockage of drainage systems due to indiscriminate waste disposal. He urged residents to desist from dumping refuse in canals and drainage channels, warning that offenders would face legal action.
Bello also announced that the government would soon commence the demolition of illegal structures built on floodplains, which obstruct water flow. “We will enforce the law to protect lives and property. No one will be allowed to build on drainage alignments or wetlands,” he stated.
Call for Community Cooperation
Governor Sanwo-Olu called on residents to cooperate with the government by adhering to environmental regulations and participating in community clean-up exercises. He emphasized that flood prevention is a collective responsibility. “We cannot do it alone. We need the support of every Lagosian to keep our environment clean and safe,” he said.
The governor also announced that the state government would provide temporary accommodation for those displaced by the floods, with plans to rehabilitate the affected areas. He assured that his administration would continue to prioritize the welfare of citizens, especially in times of crisis.
