THE Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to residents living in low-lying areas of Lekki, Ikorodu, and Ajegunle to relocate to higher ground in anticipation of severe flooding.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, during an interview today, emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicating that Lagos will receive heavier rainfall this year than in 2024.
“Residents in the Ajilete axis of Ajegunle, coastline areas of Ikorodu such as Majidu, and certain parts of the Lekki corridor need to move,” Wahab stated.
“Places like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja are considered safe.”
He also warned residents in Isheri (OPIC area) to stay alert.
Wahab explained that Lagos’s coastal geography makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change, which increases the likelihood of flash floods.
His comments followed a recent bout of marathon rainfall that began on Sunday night and lasted through Monday evening, submerging homes and vehicles, and crippling economic activities across parts of the city.
Despite the challenges, Wahab assured the public that the state government is actively working to mitigate the impact.
Efforts include clearing blocked drainage systems and expanding flood pathways to improve water flow.
“We won’t lie to Lagosians. Flash floods will happen, but we are committed to building resilient infrastructure and encouraging residents to act responsibly,” he said. “When nature takes its course, our job is to reduce its impact.”
Videos circulating online show residents navigating waterlogged streets and neighborhoods, with many properties inundated due to clogged canals and drainage systems.
Authorities are urging residents in high-risk zones to take precautionary action and relocate temporarily until the rains subside.