The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources has launched an enforcement campaign to address flooding issues by reclaiming the vital System 1 Drainage Channel in Ojota and Ogudu.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, announced this initiative in a post on Monday, revealing that new structures were being erected within designated areas despite previous notices.
System 1, established in 1974, serves as the largest primary channel responsible for mitigating flood-related challenges across significant parts of Lagos mainland, including Ogudu, Ojota, Ifako, Gbagada, and Maryland.
During an inspection tour led by Wahab, it was observed that property owners were encroaching on the designated Right of Way for the drainage channel, hindering its effectiveness in flood alleviation.
Efforts to address this issue began in 2021 with contravention notices served to property owners, urging voluntary compliance. However, some persisted in construction activities within the designated area, prompting the enforcement action.
Despite ongoing dialogue with property owners and residents since 2021, which concluded in November 2023, encroachment continues to pose a challenge.
Additionally, the Ministry is preparing to undertake major maintenance dredging at Okota, Faseun Bridge System 6E, to enhance water flow and remove accumulated waste contributing to flooding.
This initiative complements previous dredging operations initiated by the Lagos State government, including the recent efforts targeting the primary channel in Awobo Estate, Ikorodu.
The proactive measures taken by the Ministry underscore its commitment to addressing flooding threats and ensuring the safety and well-being of Lagos residents.