Lagos State Govt Takes Action to Prevent Flooding, Demolishes Houses Built on Canal Along Orchid Road [Video/Photos]

In a decisive move to combat the persistent flooding issues plaguing Lagos, the state government has initiated the demolition of illegal structures obstructing key drainage channels.

On August 16, 2024, the Lagos State Government began dismantling houses built on the canal along System 157 - Orchid Road - Eti Osa drainage channels. This action follows several months of negotiations and failed compliance by property owners who had encroached upon these critical waterways.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, shared an update on the situation, stating, "Despite several months of negotiations, the agreed-upon redesigned plan for the canal was neglected."

The demolition aims to clear obstructions from these crucial drainage channels, thereby addressing the severe flooding that has disrupted life in Lagos.

Earlier this year, in May 2024, similar actions were taken in Mende Villa Estate, Maryland, where structures infringing on the System 1 drainage channel were targeted.

Despite a reduction in the right of way from 140 meters to 100 meters, property developers failed to comply with the new regulations, prompting the government to proceed with demolitions.

The flooding in Lagos has been exacerbated by rising lagoon levels, as noted by the state government.

Heavy rains have brought the city to a standstill, with a 10-hour downpour on July 4, 2024, causing severe disruptions to commercial activities and halting vehicular movement.

Areas such as Eredo, Bojije, Epe, Sangotedo, Ibeju-Lekki, Awoyaya, Labora, and Abijon have been particularly affected, leaving major roads submerged and passengers stranded.

The demolition efforts are part of a broader strategy to manage the severe flooding issues in Lagos.

The government has been actively enforcing the removal of structures encroaching on major drainage channels across the state. This initiative is crucial for mitigating the impact of flooding, which has become an annual challenge for one of Africa's largest cities.