The Lagos State Government officials visited several Ikorodu communities yesterday to sympathise with residents impacted by recent flash flooding.
The flooding was caused by over 13 hours of torrential rainfall that hit the state earlier this week.
The government team assured residents that measures are being taken to manage the situation and address the ongoing challenges.
READ ALSO: Lagos govt assures residents of flood preparedness amid heavy rains
Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, the Special Adviser on Environment led the extensive assessment tour of the Ikorodu drainage infrastructure project.
Rotimi-Akodu explained that the intensity of the recent rainfall was a rare event, likely only to occur once in decades, and is a clear indicator of the effects of climate change.
He reiterated the governor’s message of sympathy to those who suffered property damage and displacement, while also stating that the government would ensure the project contractor expedites work to mitigate the immediate problems.
Rotimi-Akodu urged residents to adopt better environmental practices, such as proper waste disposal and avoiding the encroachment of road infrastructure and right-of-ways.
He reminded them that such negative human actions often exacerbate natural events like flooding.
Abiodun Moshood, representing the Ikorodu II constituency, who joined the inspection team, expressed his appreciation for the visit and urged for the speedy completion of the drainage project.
He clarified that the project, which has a 12-month timeline and is halfway through, has not been abandoned.
Moshood expressed confidence that upon completion, the projects will provide a permanent solution to the perennial flooding in the area.
READ ALSO: Sanwo-Olu demands special economic status for Lagos
The Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, confirmed his presence at the inspection to gather preliminary information and statistics to inform the government’s humanitarian response.
Places visited include the ongoing construction of the Outfall Channel for the ongoing Gberigbe Road Project (One Fold) Outfall, which cuts across One Fold Community, Okeletu Road, Unity Estate, Gbopa Community, Abule-Eko Community, all in Ijede; Ongoing construction of Palm Avenue Collector Drain, Oke-Eletu, Ijede and Igbogbo.
