The Lagos State Government has said that its policy of demolishing buildings erected on floodplains has been effective in averting potential disasters.
Speaking on a TV interview monitored by Radio Now’s Newsdesk, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, explained that these demolitions have helped mitigate the impact of flooding, especially as Lagos braces for heavy rainfall.
While drawing attention to Climate change as real-life issues, Wahab urged the people not to see these measures as punishment but necessary for the state’s development.
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He added that during his first year in office, his decision to remove illegal structures was politicized, with some accusing him of bigotry. However, Wahab insisted that the demolitions were necessary and have since proven beneficial.
Wahab also extended his condolences to the residents of Mokwa in Niger State, where floods killed over 200 people and displaced thousands last week. He called on citizens to avoid building on drainage paths and flood zones, noting that many of the structures removed in Lagos did not have the necessary approvals, including drainage clearance and environmental impact assessments.
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