The Lagos State Government is taking decisive action against illegal encroachment on the Ikota River’s Right of Way (RoW), a critical drainage channel in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area. A total of 39 buildings have been marked for demolition, a move prompted by concerns over escalating environmental risks and persistent violation of building regulations. This action follows a drainage enforcement inspection tour led by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who expressed alarm at the extent of the encroachment and the disregard for previous warnings issued by the government. The affected buildings, situated within Oral Extension Estate, Westend Estate, and Mega Mond Estate in the Lekki axis, have significantly altered the natural course of the river, increasing the risk of flooding and other environmental hazards.
The demolition exercise is categorized into three phases, reflecting the varying degrees of encroachment. Eighteen of the marked structures face complete demolition due to severe violations. Another eight buildings will undergo partial demolition, involving the removal of sections encroaching on the RoW. The remaining 13 structures will also be entirely demolished. This tiered approach aims to address the specific infringements while minimizing disruption where possible. The government’s decision comes after protracted engagement with stakeholders, during which attempts were made to find a balanced solution that protects both the environment and residents’ interests. However, these efforts were undermined by some developers who continued to expand construction activities illegally, despite the ongoing dialogue and official warnings.
The Commissioner expressed disappointment at the developers’ lack of cooperation and blatant disregard for environmental regulations. Satellite and digital assessments conducted by the government revealed that construction activities not only continued but intensified, exceeding the scale observed during earlier site visits. This disregard for warnings further solidified the government’s resolve to enforce demolition. Wahab criticized the developers for prioritizing profit over public safety and prioritizing self-interest at the expense of the environment. He stressed that the government’s empathy for affected tenants cannot supersede the imperative to protect the wider community from potential environmental disasters.
A key point of contention revolves around the ongoing reclamation work at Westend and Mega Mond Estates. The Commissioner noted that these activities have exceeded approved limits and highlighted the mandatory requirement for developers to conduct proper Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and ensure adequate drainage clearance before embarking on such projects. He issued a stern warning that failure to comply with these regulations will result in strict enforcement action. The government has ordered a halt to further sand-filling at these sites and demanded the submission of necessary documentation to ensure compliance with established environmental protocols.
The government’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations is further underscored by the indefinite quit notices issued to occupants of the marked buildings. While no fixed deadline has been set for the demolition, residents have been urged to expedite the process of vacating the premises and relocating their belongings. This approach, while prioritizing public safety, acknowledges the emotional toll on residents and emphasizes the urgency of the situation. The Commissioner reiterated the government’s intention to revisit the sites to assess progress and ensure compliance with the quit notices.
The Lagos State Government’s decision to demolish these 39 buildings underscores its commitment to upholding environmental regulations and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. The escalating encroachment on the Ikota River’s RoW poses a significant threat to the surrounding communities, heightening the risk of flooding and environmental degradation. While balancing the need for development with environmental protection remains a complex challenge, the government’s firm stance sends a clear message: prioritizing short-term gains over long-term environmental sustainability will not be tolerated. The enforcement action also serves as a warning to other developers to adhere to established regulations and prioritize responsible construction practices. By addressing this issue decisively, the Lagos State Government aims to prevent further environmental damage and ensure the long-term safety and well-being of its communities.
