By Esther Agbo
The Lagos State Government has issued a 14-day ultimatum for the removal of buildings and structures erected on drainage channels in Sangotedo, Lekki, and Okota, Isolo.
This statement was made by the Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, following an inspection tour of contravention sites and ongoing drainage enforcement projects in these areas, as well as Ago Palace Way, Ikoyi.
Mr. Wahab emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring environmental order in Lagos, stating, “The era of environmental indiscipline and nuisance are over in Lagos. We will not shy away from enforcing all relevant laws irrespective of whose ox is gored.
Lagos despite its peculiarities as a coastal state with low-lying terrains and a high population density among others has remained afloat because of various measures put in place by the government.”
Highlighting the state’s challenges as a coastal area with low-lying terrains and a high population density, Wahab noted that various government measures have kept Lagos resilient. He stressed the importance of addressing climate change and the current cholera outbreak, urging residents to be responsible in their environmental practices.
“I tell people climate change is real and there is a cholera outbreak, We must know that all these things are Interwoven. We must all be responsible and responsive as a people, people cannot continue to brazenly abuse the environment and expect that there will be no consequences.”
At Sangotedo, near Lagos Business School, Wahab revealed that a 48-hour contravention notice had been issued to owners of buildings within the drainage channels, followed by a 14-day abatement period.
“We will commence full enforcement after the expiration of all notices with an option of voluntary compliance.
“Lagos despite its peculiarities as a coastal state with low-lying terrains and a high population density among others has remained afloat because of various measures put in place by the government.”