Lagos State Government Demolishes 17 Illegal Building Structures in Lekki to Reclaim Waterways and Curb Flooding
The Lagos State Government has demolished 17 unapproved buildings in Oral Estate II, Lekki, as part of an ongoing enforcement drive to reclaim waterways, restore natural drainage systems, and reduce flood risks across the city. During an inspection of the affected sites, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, criticized private developers for encroaching on natural waterways and narrowing river channels to create saleable plots. He noted that such activities have disrupted the Ikota River’s natural flow, heightening flood vulnerability in nearby communities.
“Flooding in Lagos cannot be eliminated, but it can be effectively managed through responsible urban development,” Wahab said. “When wetlands are destroyed and drainage systems blocked, the city becomes increasingly exposed to preventable flood disasters.”
Stop-work and seal orders were issued to developers at Partibons Homes Estate and Bee-Forth Estate Phase II, where illegal reclamation and sand-filling activities were ongoing. Wahab added that Channels 156 and 157 two major stormwater channels designed to drain into the Lagoon have been severely compromised by unapproved construction.
Alignment with Infrastructure and Environmental Policy
The enforcement exercise was carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Transportation, which is preparing for the Green Rail Line project. Transportation Commissioner Oluwaseun Osiyemi highlighted that automobile dealers operating illegally along wetlands and powerline corridors on the Lekki–Epe Expressway had been issued eviction notices.
“These corridors are critical to Lagos’ long-term infrastructure plans,” Osiyemi stated. “Protecting them ensures the city’s transport and drainage systems can operate efficiently as population and development pressures grow.
Flood Management Projects Underway
Officials also inspected the Agodogba Collector Drain project at Parkview Estate, a major flood mitigation initiative expected to provide substantial relief to flood-prone areas once completed.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to continuous monitoring and enforcement, particularly in areas where land reclamation and illegal construction threaten urban resilience.
Conclusion
With urban flooding now one of Lagos’ most pressing environmental challenges, the state’s latest demolition and enforcement efforts reflect a broader policy push towards sustainable urban planning and disaster prevention. Authorities have warned that further non-compliance with building and environmental regulations will attract sanctions, as Lagos aims to safeguard its waterways and protect long-term investments in infrastructure.
