“We can’t run away from it” – Tokunbo Wahab on Lagos flooding
The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water resources, Tokunbo Wahab has commented on the recent flooding that has engulfed Lagos, stating that flash flooding cannot be completely avoided in Lagos because Lagos is a coastal state, however, he made clear that the government has been and continues to provide infrastructure state-wide to address the flooding.
The Commissioner, who made these remarks during an interview with Channels television on Wednesday, also urged residents to be calm and that technology has been adopted by the government to address the flooding.
“Lagos is a coastal state, and we are exposed…we can’t run away from it.”
Regarding the realities of Lagos he stated that Lagos has just 0.4 per cent of the country’s landmass but houses 10 per cent of the country’s population.
He also added “there is a battle between the environment and urbanization. People want to do reclamation, people build without town planning approvals and the government refuses. The same people will start insulting the government.”
The Commissioner went further, maintaining that residents, just as the government remains dedicated to utilizing technology and infrastructure to reduce flood risks have to take responsibility of the environment.
“We must not always get flooded but we can’t run away from flash flooding. However, we as people should not exacerbate the situation by our own conduct.”
The Lagos flooding, which is an annual situation seems to be worsened this period as temporary flood goes beyond the usual areas such as Lekki, Victoria Island and onto other parts as seen in areas such as Gbagada, Surulere, Mushin, Ikeja, Mafoluku and other areas. The situation is dire as the flood irrespective of the irrigation systems and methods applied by the government cannot contain it.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the government, through methods such as the adoption of technology to better the situation, while urging the residents to maintain cooperation with the government for a safer and clean environment.
