The Lagos State Government is set to commence the removal of stalls and shanties under Apongbon Bridge and along the setbacks of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel on Lagos Island today (Tuesday).
This move follows the expiration of a 48-hour quit notice issued to stall owners and traders last week, according to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.
Wahab explained that the shanties obstructing drainage channels would be removed in the interest of public safety and environmental health.
“We came to ascertain the level of compliance concerning the abatement notices served on Thursday to ensure that, statutorily, we have fulfilled what is required according to the law. This will be followed by enforcement activities on Tuesday,” Wahab stated.
The commissioner clarified that the enforcement would focus on clearing extensions impeding public infrastructure within the drainage channels.
However, he assured that buildings not constructed on drainage alignments would not be affected.
Wahab emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward non-compliance with environmental laws. He warned stall owners and traders against attempting to return to the cleared areas, stressing that such actions would not be permitted.
He also criticized contractors who dump building materials on constructed drains, noting that such practices disrupt the free flow of stormwater and exacerbate flooding.
The Lagos State Government remains committed to ensuring a clean and flood-free environment for residents, with the planned removal serving as part of its broader efforts to improve drainage and reduce environmental hazards across the state.
