Road Project Blocks Natural Water Flow, Strands Residents
Promises Made, But Problem Worsen
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By Nurudeen Adebayo
Residents of Thomas Laniyan Phase Two in Irawo Ajegunle, Lagos, are facing severe flooding issues due to a recently commenced road construction project by the local government.
The project, intended to improve access within the estate, has inadvertently created drainage problems that have kept residents stranded in their homes, with many unable to attend church or other activities.
Since construction began on May 5, 2024, residents have been struggling with constant flooding, as water can no longer flow along its natural topographical path.
A long-term resident, who has lived in the estate for 25 years, described the situation as “embarrassing” and unlike anything he’s ever experienced.
The flooding has taken a toll on vehicles, with many residents forced to replace bearings and parts due to constant water exposure.
“We can’t move freely; we are forced to change our car bearings and other parts frequently,” he lamented.
Another resident mentioned that community representatives, including the CDA (Community Development Association) chairman, had raised the drainage issue with local authorities.
While the government promised to install a culvert, no progress has been made, leaving residents to create makeshift channels to direct the water flow.
Alhaji Lasisi Ibrahim, a 20-year resident of the estate, expressed disappointment in the project’s execution. “When the LCDA chairman announced the road project, we thought we had found a messiah. Instead, it has caused us more sorrow,” he said.
The primary problem lies in the road’s elevation, which has been built higher than the houses in the area, contrary to the estate’s natural topography.
The project disconnected the drainage system from Owode Ajegunle, an arrangement that residents had managed for years. With the road now elevated, residents report that their homes and properties are increasingly vulnerable.
Mr. Lasisi also mentioned that the government had pledged five loads of rubble to make the only road accessible; however, the rubble was reportedly taken by an unknown individual, with no subsequent effort to retrieve it or apply it where needed.
Assistant Secretary of Estate ,Augustina shared her frustration, pointing out that four estates, including Thomas Laniyan Phase Two, are facing the effects of this flawed construction.
Local Government Chairman Dele Oshinowo had initially pledged to construct adequate drainage to address flooding concerns, but residents say no visible progress has been made. “The road has reduced our standard of living,” Augustina added.
Mummy Bolu, a local hairdresser, voiced her distress, noting that water regularly invades her shop, damaging her children’s textbooks and supplies.
“The situation is appalling,” she said. “We want the Ministry of Environment to intervene. The intentions of Dele Oshinowo are unclear.”
Efforts to speak with the contractor, Mr. Solomon, were unsuccessful, leaving residents uncertain about the future of the projec