Experts to Lagos Gov't: Enforce drainage rules or brace for more floods

By Sofiyyah Layole

Experts have warned that the recurring flooding in Lagos state will persist unless the Lagos State Government strengthens drainage enforcement and curbs illegal construction across flood plains.

This follows heavy downpours on Tuesday and Wednesday which plunged the city into chaos.

Floods submerged major roads and neighbourhoods, leaving commuters stranded and businesses counting losses.

Areas including Lekki, Iyana Oworo, Ajah and parts of Victoria Island were worst hit, with videos on social media showing vehicles submerged, schoolchildren wading through waist-deep water, and market women struggling to salvage goods.

Speaking to NewsDirect, Dr. Funmi Adewale, a hydrology specialist said, “This flood is not an act of God; it’s man made." 

“Blocked drainage channels, poor waste disposal, and weak enforcement of planning regulations are the real culprits. Until these are fixed, every rainstorm will bring disaster.” She noted.

Also reacting, an urban planner at the University of Lagos, Prof. Charles Onwudiwe, noted that, “Flooding will persist in Lagos until drainage enforcement becomes non-negotiable. The government must muster the political will.”

The Lagos State Government confirmed that emergency teams were deployed to clear blocked canals and pump water from critical roads. Officials urged residents to stop indiscriminate dumping of refuse and warned that violators of environmental laws would be sanctioned.

However, many residents expressed frustration at what they described as government inaction. Mrs. Kafayat Olalekan, a shop owner in Lekki whose goods were destroyed, said: “Every year they promise to fix drainage, but nothing changes. We lose everything, and they blame us for throwing dirt in gutters.”

Researchers also linked the worsening situation to climate change and large-scale construction projects. “Reckless reclamation and building on wetlands have disrupted natural waterways,” said Dr. Michael Omojola, a climate adaptation researcher. “Lagos is paying the price for poor planning.”

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has in the past pledged billions for drainage expansion and shoreline protection. However, critics argue that without strict enforcement of environmental regulations, the state will remain vulnerable to devastating floods.

For residents, the human cost is immediate. Stranded commuters, ruined businesses and displaced families have once again raised the question: how much longer before Lagos finds a permanent solution to its flooding nightmare?