Lagos Govt to Remove Stalls, Shanties Under Apongbon Bridge Tuesday

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin full enforcement of the removal of stalls and shanties situated under the Apongbon Bridge and along the setback of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel on Lagos Island.

The operation, set to commence on Tuesday, follows the expiration of a 48-hour quit notice issued to traders last week.

This announcement was made by the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, during an inspection tour of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel in the Olowogbowo/Apongbon area of Lagos Island.

Wahab emphasized that the removal of these obstructions was necessary to ensure free drainage flow and safeguard public infrastructure.

The commissioner highlighted the impact of the shanties and stalls, which had completely blocked critical drainage collectors, including the Bombata/Olusi and Alagbafo collectors.

He noted that this obstruction caused significant drainage issues, leading to flooding risks in the area.

In addition to the enforcement activities, Wahab revealed that the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) would take over the cleared spaces for beautification and sustainability.

The government’s enforcement activities will include the removal of extensions impeding public infrastructure within the drainage channels.

However, Wahab assured that buildings not situated on drainage alignments would not be affected.

He also warned traders and stall owners against returning to cleared setbacks, noting that the state would take strict measures to prevent recalcitrant behavior.

Wahab expressed dissatisfaction with contractors who dump building materials on drainage channels, disrupting the free flow of stormwater.

He disclosed that buildings under construction in affected areas, including Oke-Arin, Abibu-Oki, and Ebute Ero Market, would be sealed until all dumped materials were removed.

The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a dual approach of advocacy and enforcement, warning that offenders would face penalties under state environmental laws.

To bolster enforcement, Wahab called on Lagos residents to serve as whistle-blowers by reporting infractions to the appropriate authorities.

He urged all government agencies to act promptly on reported violations to maintain environmental safety across the state.

This development underscores the Lagos State Government’s resolve to address drainage challenges and ensure a cleaner, flood-free environment for its residents.

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