The Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin full enforcement of the removal of stalls and shanties under Apongbon Bridge and along the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel on Lagos Island.
The operation is set to commence on Tuesday, following the expiration of a 48-hour quit notice issued to traders last week.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, made this announcement during an inspection tour of the affected areas, including the Olowogbowo/Apongbon axis.
He highlighted that the government is committed to clearing all structures obstructing drainage channels to protect the well-being of residents.
Obstructions Blocking Critical Drainage Channels
Wahab explained that the inspection revealed that vital drainage collectors such as Bombata/Olusi and Alagbafo had been blocked by makeshift stalls and shops, resulting in severe impediments to water flow. The commissioner, accompanied by other officials including Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu and Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, reiterated the government’s determination to reclaim these spaces.
Enforcement and Beautification Plans
As part of the enforcement, the state will demolish any structures that obstruct public infrastructure within the drainage channels, ensuring that buildings outside drainage alignments remain unaffected.
Wahab warned traders against attempting to return to cleared areas and announced that the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) will take over the spaces for beautification and maintenance.
Crackdown on Environmental Violations
The commissioner also condemned contractors who dump building materials on drainage paths, disrupting stormwater flow.
He directed that ongoing constructions in Oke-Arin, Abibu-Oki, and Ebute Ero markets found violating these regulations be sealed until the materials are removed.
While emphasising the state’s readiness to use enforcement alongside advocacy, Wahab encouraged residents to report environmental violations as whistle-blowers.
He assured that reported infractions would be addressed by the appropriate government agencies to ensure compliance with Lagos environmental laws.
The government remains committed to ensuring proper drainage flow and maintaining a clean, sustainable environment for all residents.