Agency

Following the removal of structures along water channels and drainages across the state, among other environmental exercises, the Lagos State Government says all the enforcements are meant for the greater interest of residents.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

He explained that most of the enforcement actions were pre-emptive and accounted for the almost zero fatalities that would have been recorded around the state with the magnitude of rainfall it experienced.

Wahab said if such steps were not taken, some structures at Mende Villa Estate, several areas would have experienced unprecedented flooding during the latest rainfalls.

He added that the safe pre-emptive measures saved the souls of several residents of Oke Afa and Bucknor, who have suffered for several years because some residents for selfish reasons chose to construct in the middle of the channel.

The commissioner reminded those who criticize the government’s actions on the environment without offering alternatives that the time for politics is over and it is now time for governance.

Wahab also urged estate surveyors to always conduct due diligence for all constructions they undertake or supervise by ensuring that a drainage clearance permit is obtained for all structures near drainages.

“The state government is investing in resilient infrastructure that will ensure that the state has the capacity to contain run-off of heavy rainfalls, to ensure that a few hours after the rainfall, the water subsides,” he said.

(NAN)