The Lagos state government has begun the demolition of structures built on drainage setbacks in Gbagada and Bariga.
The action comes after the devastating flooding on July 3, which caused widespread disruption and left millions of residents stranded.
In response, the government issued a 48-hour notice to owners of the structures to vacate the areas, citing the urgent need to clear illegal settlements to mitigate future flooding risks.
In a statement, Tokunbo Wahab, the commissioner of environment and water resources, emphasised the importance of the demolition, stating that removing shanties along the Bariga-Gbagada Drainage Channel is critical to preventing similar flooding incidents in the state.
Operatives from the Drainage Enforcement and Compliance Department of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources have been tasked with carrying out the removal process.
Wahab reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and improving drainage infrastructure to safeguard residents from the impacts of heavy rains and flooding.
