Blocked waterways, encroachments responsible for floods — Sanwo-Olu


GOVERNOR  Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, yesterday, attributed the flooding witnessed in parts of the state to intense rainfall and illegal human activities that obstruct natural waterways.

Sanwo-Olu, however, assured affected residents that the government will intensify drainage interventions and provide relief to families affected by the floods. 

He also said the state government would review the master-plans of communities battling with flooding in the state for a sustainable intervention.

The governor made the remarks during an inspection tour of flood-affected communities, which included Ogombo, Monastery in Sangotedo, and Gbetu-Olorunkemi Road in Awoyaya, Ibeju-Lekki, and Chevron Drive in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of the state.

Addressing journalists after the inspection, Sanwo-Olu explained that the affected areas are part of Lagos’ natural drainage system, stressing that water must be allowed to flow through its natural channels into the lagoons.

The governor said: “What we are being very intentional about is ensuring that water flows through its natural channels because Lagos is surrounded by water and several tributaries.

“While nature played a significant role in the flooding experienced in recent weeks, human activities have worsened the situation in several locations.

“In all of the journey we have seen today, there is a natural occurrence, and there is also a human factor. 

“Over the years, developments have come to meet natural bodies of water. In some places, people without approvals have restricted the flow of these waterways.

“We need to come regularly to excavate and clear these channels so there will be free flow of water. Once the waterways are maintained, the water will eventually find its way into the lagoon.

“The volume of water recorded in the last three to four weeks is largely due to natural causes. Climate change is real, and we are seeing heavier rainfall across the world. 

“We cannot stop the rain, but we can continue to improve our infrastructure to manage it.”

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