The Lagos State Government has issued a stern ultimatum to building owners encroaching on road setbacks along Orchid, Agungi, and Ajiran Road.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, delivered this ultimatum during an inspection tour of the area on Sunday.
In a statement on Monday, Wahab clarified that the purpose of the inspection was to assess compliance with the approved seven-meter setback on both sides of the channel regarding buildings and fences.
He emphasized the option for property owners to voluntarily adhere to the specified setback.
Wahab urged Lagosians to align with the state drainage master plan to avoid potential property demolitions.
He expressed concern about the role of developers, builders, and residents in causing flooding, emphasizing the need for enforcement to maintain law and order.
“We cannot keep lampooning the government for flooding when developers, builders, and residents themselves are the main cause of flooding; we shall continue to enforce because that is why laws are made.
Without law and order, there cannot be development; this level of bad behavior must stop,” said the commissioner.
Additionally, Wahab visited Oral Estate II along System 156 Igbo Efon, where he identified unlawful buildings without drainage approvals obstructing the primary channel.
He also inspected Agungi, Ajiran, and Osapa, areas where notices had been previously issued.
Wahab clarified that the System 156 Ikota River channel was originally 46 meters in length, highlighting that residents and property owners had encroached upon it.
Those who violated the rules and had properties within the original channel setback on either side were given a seven-day ultimatum to rectify the situation.
The commissioner underscored the government’s commitment to enforcing regulations for sustainable development and flood prevention.
