Lagos Govt Warns Against Politicising Flooding After Heavy Rains

The Lagos State Government has warned critics not to politicise flooding after recent heavy rainfall affected parts of the state.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said ongoing work on drainage channels, wetlands and floodplains had reduced the impact of the rainfall. He argued that the state’s interventions were helping to limit damage despite the volume of water.

The government also linked some flooding problems to structures blocking drainage channels, including in parts of Lekki where enforcement action has been taken. Wahab said the state would continue removing obstructions from drainage alignments and flood-prone corridors.

Residents have continued to raise concerns over flooding during intense rain, especially in areas where construction, blocked drains and low-lying terrain worsen water flow. The state’s position is that long-term drainage enforcement remains necessary even when it is unpopular.

The latest warning follows renewed public debate over Lagos flooding and whether official interventions are keeping pace with the city’s rapid development and recurring heavy rainfall.

Sources: Vanguard and Punch.