The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to residents against indiscriminate disposal of waste into drains and gutters, stressing that such actions significantly contribute to urban flooding across the metropolis.
The caution was contained in a statement released on Wednesday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in response to the flash flooding witnessed in parts of the state following heavy rainfall.
Wahab attributed the current flooding to a natural tidal occurrence affecting water discharge, explaining that the phenomenon is temporary.“The flash flooding currently being experienced in parts of the city is due to increased tidal levels from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Lagos Lagoon,” Wahab stated.
“This natural phenomenon, known as ‘lock up,’ occurs when high tide temporarily prevents rainwater from discharging into the sea. As a result, stormwater backs up, leading to flash floods in low-lying areas.
”He assured residents that the floodwaters would drain off within one to two hours after the rain stops, once the tidal levels subside.
The commissioner also urged Lagosians not to panic, noting that emergency and drainage maintenance teams are on the ground and actively monitoring the situation.
“Please do not dispose of waste into drains and gutters. Such actions obstruct water flow and aggravate flooding.
Proper waste disposal is a civic duty that every resident must observe to ensure a cleaner, safer, and flood-resilient Lagos,” he added.
