The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against disposing of waste in drains and gutters, warning that such actions can exacerbate flooding in the city. This warning was issued by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement on Wednesday. According to Wahab, the current flash flooding in parts of the city is due to increased tidal levels from the Atlantic Ocean and the Lagos Lagoon, a natural phenomenon known as “lock up” that temporarily prevents rainwater from discharging into the sea.
He assured residents that the floodwater will drain off naturally within 1-2 hours after the rain stops. The commissioner urged Lagosians to remain calm and avoid panic, assuring that emergency response and drainage maintenance teams are actively monitoring the situation. He emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal, stating that it is a civic responsibility that all residents must uphold to ensure a flood-resilient Lagos. The government appeals to residents to refrain from disposing of waste in drains and gutters, as this can block water flow and worsen flooding. By working together, the government and residents can mitigate the impact of flooding in the city.
