July 11, 2025 | Lagos — The Lagos State Government has announced plans to demolish structures encroaching on the Ikota River’s channel in the Lekki axis as part of its flood-control and environmental protection efforts.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed that the state has issued quit and contravention notices to property owners in estates such as Oral, Westend, and Mega mound, where buildings were found to intrude upon the river’s right-of-way. A total of 39 structures have been marked, with 20 slated for full demolition, 8 for partial, and 13 for complete removal .
Wahab explained that although authorities engaged affected residents in dialogue and granted extensions to allow relocation, non-compliant developers continued to obstruct the river’s alignment by reclaiming land and erecting buildings .
While we empathise with families, the rule of law must prevail,” Wahab stated, adding that the ministry initiated demolition by dismantling fences and walls of encroaching properties. He emphasized that further construction without permits and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) would not be tolerated .
The action is being taken to protect the city from recurring flood risks, restore proper drainage flow, and enforce urban and environmental laws. Wahab warned developers to halt ongoing reclamation, remove illegally filled sand, and fully comply, or lose their structures .
This marks a critical step in Lagos State’s broader flood mitigation strategy, ensuring drainage resilience and safeguarding residents against water-related disasters.
