The Lagos State Government has issued an urgent warning to residents in flood-prone areas of Lekki, Ikorodu, and Ajegunle, advising them to move to higher ground as heavy rainfall continues to batter the state.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, on Tuesday, August 5, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the warning follows forecasts of intensified rainfall and growing risk of disaster in low-lying areas. He said:
“Those around the Ajilete axis of Lagos — that’s Ajegunle — they have to move. Those along the coastline in Ikorodu, such as Majidun, also need to move. Some parts of the Lekki corridor too — not all — are affected.”
Wahab also flagged Isheri, in the OPIC area, as a location of concern, urging residents there to be on high alert. He added that areas like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja remain relatively safe from severe flooding.
The warning comes after widespread flooding left many parts of Lagos underwater following torrential rainfall that began Sunday night and continued through Monday, August 4.
Viral videos showed submerged homes, stranded vehicles, and waterlogged streets, severely disrupting daily life and business activities in the state.
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Wahab said the environmental crisis was anticipated based on earlier projections from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which forecast heavier rainfall for Lagos in 2024 compared to previous years.
“For those in the lowlands of Lagos, they must move to upland areas until the rain subsides,” he said.
As a coastal city, Lagos is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including flash flooding.
Wahab emphasized that the government is proactively addressing the challenge through infrastructure development and public awareness. He continued:
“Lagos will be exposed to the vagaries of climate change, and that means flash flooding is inevitable. But as a government, we must provide resilient infrastructure and urge our people to act responsibly.”
He noted that the state is currently expanding flood channels and clearing drainage systems to improve water flow and minimize flood damage.
“We won’t lie to Lagosians,” Wahab added. “If nature takes its course, our job is to reduce the impact.”
While calling for calm, the commissioner stressed that citizens must follow official guidance and relocate from vulnerable areas where necessary.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property but insisted that community cooperation is crucial.