The Lagos State Government recently demolished several duplexes and buildings along the Ikota River in Eti-Osa Local Government Area due to violations of urban planning laws and obstruction of natural drainage channels. This demolition exercise aims to prevent perennial flooding in the area.
Key Details:
– Affected Areas: The demolition took place in Oral Estate and Megamound Estate in Lekki, with 18 buildings in Oral Estate found to be within the river’s designated setback.
– Reason for Demolition: The buildings were demolished for encroaching on the natural river channel, posing significant environmental risks and increasing flood risks due to illegal land reclamation and sandfilling.
– Government’s Stance: Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized that while the government remains focused on restoring the river’s alignment to prevent flooding, only buildings obstructing the river’s path would be affected.
Background:
– Previous Notices: The government had issued notices to property owners obstructing the river’s alignment, with an extension period granted for residents to relocate before the demolition began.
– Flooding Concerns: The demolition is part of the state’s broader flood mitigation efforts, as the Ikota River’s natural flow is crucial in preventing flooding in the area.
Impact and Reactions:
– Resident Concerns: Some affected residents have called for greater transparency in building permit approvals and verification processes, saying they were not adequately informed before the demolition.
– Government Response: Authorities maintain that necessary notices were served, insisting that illegal constructions obstructing waterways will continue to be removed to safeguard lives and property.
