The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to remove illegal structures and extensions obstructing drainage channels and public infrastructure in the Oke-Arin, Apongbon Market, and surrounding areas on Lagos Island.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, disclosed this during an inspection on Sunday, noting that four buildings at Alakoro in the Ereko Market area had been sealed for traffic obstruction and environmental law violations.
“This morning, we assessed the compliance level with notices issued last Thursday. By Tuesday, we will start removing extensions blocking public infrastructure,” Wahab stated.
He criticized the indiscriminate placement of building materials on roads and drainage channels, emphasizing the damage caused to Lagos’ infrastructure.
The Commissioner explained that the state government would use a “carrot and stick” approach, blending advocacy with enforcement. While urging voluntary compliance, he warned of legal actions against defaulters.
The removal drive stems from a 24-hour notice given to traders and owners of illegal structures last Thursday.
Wahab highlighted that critical drainage systems for de-flooding Lagos Island had been obstructed by illegal developments, worsening flooding during the rainy season.
The inspection team included top government officials such as Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, and Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services.
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