Lagos Fights Flood, Demolishes Illegal Buildings in Lekki
Atume Terfa
In a bold step to tackle one of its most pressing urban challenges, the Lagos State Government has begun demolishing buildings and structures obstructing stormwater channels along the Ikota River corridor in Lekki, Eti-Osa Local Government Area. The action is part of an emergency drive to restore water flow and stem the tide of recurring floods that have plagued the highbrow district.
On Friday, September 26, 2025, enforcement officials from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources rolled into Lekki, dismantling structures illegally built across drainage alignments. Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, who confirmed the operation on social media, said the demolition was necessary to clear waterways that had been deliberately blocked by unauthorised construction.
“These violations not only break the law but also worsen the suffering of residents during the rains,” Wahab noted, adding that the demolitions form part of short-term measures to mitigate heavy flooding.
The operation comes on the heels of devastating floods earlier in the week. A heavy downpour had submerged key parts of Lekki, turning roads into rivers and leaving residents marooned. In Agungi and Madam Cellular Estate (Agungi Ajinran), floodwaters reportedly rose to waist level, forcing some families to abandon their homes. Vehicles were left floating while businesses shut down.
Commercial hubs like La Quidad Mall lamented losses, urging the government to pursue more permanent fixes. “Demolitions may ease the flow for now, but Lekki needs durable drainage infrastructure,” one business operator said.
Not everyone is convinced the government is doing enough. Opposition figure Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, a former governorship candidate, accused the ruling party of repeating the same cycle of neglect that has left Lagosians vulnerable to yearly floods.
“This crisis is not just about rainfall — it’s about planning. Flooding has become predictable, yet we are still talking about demolitions as if they are long-term solutions,” Rhodes-Vivour argued.
Flooding is not new to Lekki. In July 2024, torrential rains forced widespread evacuations as streets, homes, and infrastructure collapsed under rising waters. Experts warn that the district’s coastal location, coupled with unchecked urban expansion, clogged drains, and tidal surges, make it especially prone to flooding.
Environmentalists argue that while demolitions may clear waterways temporarily, Lagos must think beyond firefighting. “The city needs smarter land-use planning, modern drainage infrastructure, and stronger enforcement of zoning laws,” said a hydrology researcher at the University of Lagos.
The state government has assured residents that flood mitigation remains a top priority. Alongside demolitions, officials say more investments will go into drainage expansion, desilting operations, and community sensitisation. Authorities also reminded citizens to stop dumping waste into drains or erecting illegal buildings on floodplains.
For now, Lekki residents hope the latest crackdown will offer some relief as they brace for more rain in the coming months.
