An enforcement initiative has been initiated by the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to reclaim the System 1 Drainage Channel in Ojota and Ogudu.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab made this announcement via his official handle on Monday.
A recent inspection revealed that property owners were constructing new buildings in restricted areas.
The System 1 Drainage Channel, established in 1974, plays a crucial role in managing flood challenges in various parts of Lagos mainland, such as Ogudu, Ojota, Ifako, Gbagada, and Maryland.
Discussions with property owners/residents began in 2021 and concluded in November 2023.
Notices warning against building within 140 meters of the channel have been issued since 2021, yet encroachments have persisted.
Property owners within the approved 140-meter Right of Way were given nearly three years for voluntary compliance, but some continued with construction activities.
In addition, the Ministry is preparing to conduct maintenance dredging at Okota, Faseun Bridge System 6E, to enhance water flow and clear accumulated debris contributing to flooding.
As a response to flood threats, a dredging operation has been initiated by the Lagos State Government in the Ikorodu area to address issues in the primary channel at Awobo Estate.
This proactive step aims to prevent potential disasters and ensure the safety of residents in the area.