By Huldah Shado
The Lagos State Government has advised residents in flood-prone areas, including parts of Lekki, Ikorodu, and Ajegunle to temporarily relocate to safer, elevated locations due to the high risk of flooding from continuous heavy rainfall.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the warning, stressing the urgency for those in low-lying communities to act swiftly to avoid disaster.
Wahab specifically identified vulnerable areas such as Ajegunle (Ajilete axis), Majidun in Ikorodu, and parts of the Lekki corridor.
While communities like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja are considered safe for now, he urged residents in the Isheri (OPIC axis), to remain on alert.
He noted that Lagos, as a coastal city, remains highly exposed to the impacts of climate change.
This warning follows severe flooding in several parts of Lagos on Monday after non-stop rainfall that began Sunday night and continued through the next day.
Viral videos showed submerged homes, streets, and vehicles, with blocked drainage systems contributing to the chaos and disrupting daily life and economic activities.
Wahab assured the public that the government is clearing drainages and expanding water channels to ease flooding but urged residents to stay calm and take personal responsibility.
“When nature acts, we can only mitigate,” he said.
He also cited forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which predict heavier rainfall in Lagos this year than in 2024, further reinforcing the need for vigilance and precaution in high-risk areas.
