Sanwo-Olu blames nature, human activities for Lagos flooding

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday attributed the flooding recorded in parts of the state to a combination of natural factors and human activities, assuring affected residents that the government would assess the damage and provide relief where necessary.

The governor, accompanied by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and officials of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, toured major drainage corridors and flood channels in Ogombo, Monastery in Sangotedo, Gbetu-Olorunkemi Road in Awoyaya, Ibeju-Lekki and Chevron Drive, Ajiran to assess the impact of the recent heavy rainfall and evaluate ongoing efforts to improve water flow across the affected areas.

Speaking with journalists after the inspection, Sanwo-Olu explained that many of the affected locations are part of Lagos’ natural drainage system, stressing that water must be allowed to flow through its natural channels into the lagoons. He noted that the state is surrounded by water bodies and several tributaries, making efficient drainage critical to flood control.

According to the governor, flooding in the affected communities resulted from both natural conditions and human interference. He said rapid urban development had encroached on natural waterways, while some residents erected structures without approval, obstructing the free flow of water and worsening the situation during heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, Sanwo-Olu assured residents that the state government would intensify dredging, excavation and expansion of drainage channels to improve stormwater discharge. He said regular maintenance of waterways would ensure water flows freely into the lagoons, thereby reducing the risk of flooding during the rainy season.

The governor also observed that the volume of rainfall recorded across Lagos in recent weeks had been unusually high, describing it as one of the effects of climate change being experienced in different parts of the world. He added that blocked drainage channels further aggravate flooding, likening the situation to water backing up in a household drain when its outlet is obstructed.

Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu stressed that addressing flooding requires collective responsibility. He urged residents to stop blocking drainage channels with waste and illegal structures, while calling on the media and relevant government agencies to continue supporting public awareness and environmental protection efforts.

He sympathised with families whose homes and property were affected by the flooding and assured them that the government would provide appropriate assistance after assessing the extent of the damage. The governor also advised residents in flood-prone communities to heed weather advisories and relocate to safer, higher ground when necessary, noting that the rainy season is still ongoing and that relevant agencies will continue monitoring vulnerable areas and implementing flood mitigation measures.