The Lagos State government has announced that it will begin the full enforcement of the removal of stalls and shanties under Apongbon Bridge and along the setback of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel on Lagos Island on Tuesday, following the expiration of a 48-hour quit notice issued to traders last week.
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, made the announcement on Sunday after an inspection of the drainage channel in the Olowogbowo/Apongbon area. He emphasized that the removal of these structures was crucial to ensuring the free flow of stormwater and the overall welfare of residents.
Wahab explained that the inspection was a follow-up to confirm compliance with the quit notice, which was issued to stall owners and traders encroaching on the drainage setbacks. He pointed out that during the previous week’s tour, it was observed that key drainage channels, including Bombata/Olusi and Alagbafo collectors, had been converted into shops and stalls, obstructing the proper flow of water.
“We are conducting this inspection to assess compliance with the abatement notices served last week, and, in accordance with the law, enforcement will follow on Tuesday,” Wahab said. He noted that the removal would target any illegal extensions obstructing public infrastructure, but buildings not affecting the drainage alignments would not be affected.
The commissioner also warned that stall owners and traders who attempt to return to the cleared areas would face strict enforcement, as the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) would immediately take over the space for maintenance and beautification.
Wahab expressed concern over the behavior of some contractors who are dumping building materials in drainage channels, obstructing the flow of stormwater and damaging public infrastructure. “These contractors often accuse the government of inaction while they contribute to the problem,” he said.
In response to these issues, the commissioner announced that all construction sites in the Oke-Arin, Abibu-Oki, and Ebute Ero areas, where building materials were being improperly dumped, would be sealed, with the materials removed before work could resume.
Accompanied by the Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite; Director Drainage Enforcement and Compliance, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Sunday Awe; GM LASWAMO, Engr. Femi Afolabi… pic.twitter.com/3AfjwL09Lg
— Tokunbo Wahab (@tokunbo_wahab) January 26, 2025
Wahab reiterated that while the state government would continue its advocacy efforts, those who disregard the law would face legal consequences. He emphasized that the government would adopt a balanced approach, using both appeals and enforcement to ensure compliance.
“We will continue to engage the public, but for those who remain defiant, the law will take its course,” he said. Wahab also called on residents to act as whistleblowers and help identify environmental infractions, stressing that the government would not tolerate the destruction of the environment.
“The government will not stand by while the environment is damaged. Though the wheels of justice may turn slowly, they will eventually bring accountability,” he concluded.
