The Lagos State Government has provided clarifications regarding the removal of structures obstructing the System 1 Drainage Right of Way in Mende, Maryland. According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, property owners were duly served notices before the demolition of their buildings commenced.
In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Commissioner Wahab emphasized that the removal of these structures was essential to prevent flooding in the Mainland area of the state. He explained that the drainage right of way had been designated since 1974, and residents were engaged multiple times before the demolitions took place.
Addressing concerns raised by some affected residents who claimed they were not properly notified, Wahab refuted these claims, stating that notices were served, and meetings were held with the residents’ association. He mentioned that initial notices were issued in 2021, followed by further engagements initiated by his predecessor, Mr. Tunji Bello.
Upon assuming office, Wahab’s administration reiterated the need for property owners to clear encumbrances obstructing the drainage channels. Personal notices were served, and properties were marked accordingly. The commissioner emphasized that the state’s environmental laws permit the removal of buildings impeding drainage channels, citing the importance of the Odo Iya Alaro Drainage Channel in managing erosion in the state.
While acknowledging the difficulty of such decisions, Wahab stressed the necessity of taking tough measures to ensure effective governance. However, he did not address the issue of compensation for owners of the affected buildings.
