The Lagos State Government Issues 48-Hour Eviction Notice to Gbagada-Bariga Canal Squatters to Prevent Flooding

To mitigate flooding during the rainy season, the Lagos State Government has issued a 48-hour eviction notice to property owners and squatters along the Gbagada-Bariga Channel who have erected illegal structures.

Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, announced via his verified X account that structures obstructing the free flow of water will be dismantled. He emphasized the need to clear the drainage channel, critical for flooding Bariga, Gbagada, Sholuyi, and downstream communities, which discharges into System 1.

Wahab stated, "Shanties erected along the channel have blocked collectors intended for stormwater, exacerbating recent flooding incidents. Property owners who have impeded water flow will face removal."

Upon the expiration of the notices, the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources will commence the removal of these illegal structures to ensure effective flooding of the area.

Last week's prolonged rainfall severely disrupted business activities, caused the collapse of a two-story building in Mushin and led to widespread vehicular congestion. Schools were closed, and many residents faced displacement from their homes across Lagos State due to the heavy rainfall.