The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures built on drainage channels and canal right-of-way in the Agungi, Ajiran and Ikota areas as part of efforts to tackle recurring flooding.

The directive was announced by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, following an inspection of key drainage infrastructure and flood control projects in the affected communities.

According to Channels Television, the inspection was prompted by repeated flooding in Agungi despite the completion of major drainage works more than two years ago.

Officials said they discovered that the main drainage outlet at the Ajiran channel had been blocked, preventing stormwater from flowing freely into the Lagos Lagoon.

Wahab alleged that a land-owning family illegally obstructed the outlet of the primary drainage channel, significantly reducing the drainage system’s effectiveness. He said the government had ordered the immediate reopening of the blocked channel in the public interest.

The commissioner stressed that while the government recognises legitimate land ownership and Certificates of Occupancy, no one has the right to obstruct natural waterways or public drainage infrastructure.

He explained that flooding in Agungi and Ajiran is linked to a drainage channel that carries stormwater through Chevron Drive into the Lagos Lagoon, warning that any blockage leaves residents vulnerable to severe flooding despite government investment.

During the inspection, officials also visited Megamond Estate in Ikota, where developers were accused of reclaiming part of the Ikota River and beginning construction without the required environmental and drainage approvals.

Wahab said enforcement and abatement notices had previously been served on the developers but were ignored. He added that all illegal structures built on reclaimed drainage alignments would be removed.

The commissioner reminded developers carrying out projects on wetlands or water-related sites that they must obtain an Environmental Impact Assessment and, where necessary, Wetland Clearance from the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources before construction begins.

He also warned that the state government would continue removing illegal reclamations and developments that violate environmental laws, while urging residents to report blocked drainage channels and other environmental infractions.