|By Adejumo Adekunle-
…Government intensifies flood control efforts across Oja Oba, Adeniji Adele
…LASPARK to convert cleared zones into parks, green spaces
The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to traders operating illegally beneath key infrastructure like the Idumagbo Bridge and the Third Mainland Bridge, particularly around the Oja Oba and Adeniji Adele areas.
This directive follows a recent inspection tour on Saturday, July 19, 2025, by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who emphasized that these areas are not intended for commercial use, but are integral to the state’s flood control strategy.
Wahab said the state government would no longer tolerate encroachments that hinder its drainage and infrastructure projects. “Public safety must take precedence over informal trading,” he warned. “These structures are not intended for market activity; they are critical flood control assets.”
The commissioner noted significant progress in ongoing projects aimed at addressing perennial flooding in Lagos. He highlighted the construction of the Onikoyi/Turnbull drainage collector, which will connect flood-prone zones like Banana Island and Park View Estate. Wahab said once completed, the project will drastically reduce flooding in those upscale communities.
He also pointed out that several smaller street-level drains are being widened and linked to major collectors to ensure better water discharge during heavy rainfall.
Despite visible progress, Wahab expressed concern over the resurgence of unregulated trading beneath the bridges that had previously been cleared. He cautioned that such actions not only endanger the traders but also undermine the government’s long-term infrastructure goals.
“To continue trading illegally under these bridges is to put lives at risk. When preventable disasters occur, the blame is often wrongly directed at the government,” he added.
In response, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) has approved the conversion of the affected under-bridge zones into formal green spaces and regulated parks. Until those plans are fully implemented, all unauthorized trading activities must cease.
Wahab stressed the importance of public cooperation. “Lagos is committed to building systems that protect lives and property, but we cannot do it alone. Every resident must respect these efforts if we are to succeed,” he concluded.
