The Lagos State Government has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to traders operating under the Apongbon Bridge and along drainage setbacks on Lagos Island, mandating them to vacate their locations. This directive, announced on Thursday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, is part of ongoing efforts to prepare for the urban regeneration of Lagos Island.
Wahab made this announcement during a media briefing following an inspection of the Savage/Elegbata Bombata drainage channel near the Apongbon axis. He expressed concerns over the impact of human activities in the area, which, he said, contribute to flooding and pose significant risks to lives and properties.
Illegal Conversions and Environmental Risks
The inspection revealed that setbacks along Bombata and the Alagbafo collector had been converted into shops, contrary to their intended purpose. These areas were not originally included in the Lagos Island regeneration plan, and their misuse threatens the success of the project.
“I have instructed that the shop/stall owners be served abatement notices,” Wahab stated. “We are going to clear these infractions and keep the maintenance work going while ensuring that the contract is revisited to accommodate these two collectors.”
Wahab further observed that livestock traders had turned the space under Apongbon Bridge into a makeshift ranch and market, blocking the drainage system. He directed their immediate relocation to designated markets, emphasizing that their activities exacerbate flooding in the area.
Swift Enforcement Measures
The Commissioner expressed disappointment over illegal structures built on setbacks and drainage channels, which hinder essential maintenance. He warned that enforcement actions would follow if compliance was not achieved within the 48-hour deadline.
Additionally, Wahab ordered the sealing of two buildings under construction on Alakoro Martins Street and in Ebute Ero market for obstructing drainage channels with building materials. The buildings will remain sealed until the materials are cleared and the affected drainage channels cleaned.
“What we saw is not something that we are happy about. People have fully built on setbacks and drainage channels, and when you build structures on these infrastructures, how do you expect them to be maintained?” Wahab asked.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
The Lagos State Government is committed to continuous enforcement, advocacy, and public enlightenment on environmental protection. Wahab called for synergy between Local Governments and the state government to enforce environmental laws effectively. He urged market operators to ensure traders utilize designated market spaces and maintain setbacks between buildings and drainage collectors.
Highlighting the government’s broader environmental initiatives, Wahab reported a 92 percent compliance rate with the ban on Styrofoam and revealed plans to phase out single-use plastics. He also addressed manhole theft concerns raised by the Lagos State House of Assembly, assuring residents that the Ministries of Environment and Water Resources, and Works and Infrastructure are collaborating to resolve the issue.
