Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has attributed the recent flooding that affected several communities across the state to blocked drainage channels, illegal activities on waterways and other human-induced factors.
The governor made the remarks during an inspection tour of flood-affected areas, where he assessed the extent of the damage caused by persistent heavy rainfall. Several roads, homes and businesses were inundated, disrupting movement and the daily activities of residents in different parts of the state.
Speaking during the visit, Sanwo-Olu said while the intensity of the rainfall contributed to the flooding, many of the incidents were worsened by human actions, including the indiscriminate disposal of refuse into drains and the obstruction of natural water channels. He stressed that blocked waterways prevent the free flow of stormwater, causing drainage systems to overflow during heavy rains.
The governor urged residents to support government efforts by adopting responsible environmental practices, particularly by keeping drainage channels free of waste and avoiding illegal developments on flood plains and drainage alignments.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving flood control infrastructure through continuous dredging of canals, expansion of drainage networks and regular desilting of waterways. According to him, these measures are aimed at reducing the impact of flooding and strengthening the state’s resilience to extreme weather conditions.
Sanwo-Olu also assured affected residents that the government would continue to monitor flood-prone areas and implement long-term solutions to protect lives and property. He noted that relevant agencies have been directed to intensify enforcement against environmental violations and ensure that drainage channels remain unobstructed.
The governor called on Lagosians to work together with the government in protecting the environment, stressing that preventing flooding is a shared responsibility that requires both effective public infrastructure and responsible citizen behaviour.
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