The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has instructed for the de-silting of drainages along federal roads in Lagos State with the aim to de-flood the highways.
Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works, in Lagos State had disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, July 4.
The directive had come after business and commercial activities were grounded on Wednesday after a 10-hour downpour in several parts of Lagos and Ogun states.
The resultant flood had collapsed a two-storey building in the Mushin area of Lagos, grounded vehicular movement on the roads, and submerged road forcing thousands of residents to wade through the water while walking about. Several pupils were also not able to attend schools in parts of the states.
The flooded places in Lagos include Eredo, Bojije,Iyana-Oworo, Agege, Ijegun-Isheri Osun, Gbagada, Lagos Island Epe, Sangotedo, Ibeju-Lekki, Awoyaya, Labora, and Abijon.
What They’re Saying
The Federal Controller of Works, Kesha, had remarked that Lagos State was not experiencing widespread submergence from floodwaters, but she admitted that the “localised flooding” had affected certain sections of federal roads within the city, hence the urgent need to clear the drainages.
“We wish to clarify that contrary to some reports, Lagos is not experiencing widespread submergence from floodwaters.”
“The ministry, however, acknowledges that localised flooding has affected certain sections of federal roads within the city.
“The minister has directed the de-silting of drains along federal roads in the state with a view to de-flooding the highways.
“Our teams are currently deployed to assess the situation while the de-silting of drains along the affected roads are currently being carried out.
“The ministry understands the inconvenience caused by these flash floods and is committed to eliminating the disruptions caused thereafter.”
Why It Matters
While not widespread, the localized flooding is serious cause for concern.
The heavy downpour in Lagos and Ogun states led to widespread flooding, affecting businesses, schools, and daily life. By clearing the drainages, the government aims to restore normalcy and prevent further disruptions.
