…Governing bodies clash over waterfront jurisdiction in Lekki
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has successfully reclaimed control of the Okunde Bluewater Scheme in Lekki, a move that has sparked a bitter confrontation with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
This significant repossession occurred on Wednesday as state officials intensified their efforts to assert dominance over waterfront properties.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu along with Engr. Olumide Sotire, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Physical Planning, spearheaded the repossession operation.
“We cannot allow unauthorised bodies to occupy this crucial area which is intended for developmental purposes,” Alebiosu stated, emphasising the urgency of the state’s actions.
Initial efforts to take control of the facility had been made the prior week when NIWA and local miscreants were found occupying the area unlawfully. Following a tip-off, officials returned to the site only to discover that NIWA had reasserted its presence.
“It is unacceptable that we had to return to reclaim what is rightfully under the jurisdiction of the Lagos State Government,” Sotire asserted.
The ongoing struggle between Lagos State and NIWA points to deeper jurisdictional disputes that have plagued governance in Nigeria. The clash is emblematic of a wider challenge faced by state governments in exerting authority over valuable resources often encroached upon by federal agencies.
Alebiosu affirmed that Lagos State is committed to ensuring that all assets within its territory align with its developmental agenda. “We will continue to take decisive actions to reclaim our waterfront assets for the benefit of the people of Lagos. This is just the beginning of a comprehensive approach to restoring order,” he added.