• Tasks residents on whistleblowing during infractions

Lagos State government has reassured residents that there is no need to panic over the flash flooding experienced in some parts of the state on Monday, insisting that resilient infrastructure is in place to contain any eventuality.

The assurance came as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) predicted thundery and rainy weather activities from Wednesday to Friday across the country.

NiMet’s weather outlook released in Abuja on Tuesday anticipated intermittent light rains affecting parts of Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Edo, Ondo, Rivers and AkwaIbom states during the morning hours.

In the afternoon or evening hours, intermittent light rains are expected over the entire region.

Reassuring residents on the X-Space, ‘Ask Lagos’, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, attributed Monday’s flash flooding to the intensity of the rainfall, which lasted more than 15 hours in some areas, and climate change.

He mentioned a major contract to address the issue in Ijede, stating that the intensity of the rainfall created undue pressure, which had been addressed by opening up some parts to drain the water.

“Lagosians, there is no need to panic: climate issues are real life issues. I would like to assure everyone that the government will continue to put in place resilient infrastructure that we need as a state,” he said.

Wahab also charged residents to be courageous and blow the whistle when they see any infraction detrimental to the environment. He stressed that residents must take responsibility by positively relating to the environment at all times.

“Lagosians must always take responsibility by relating positively to the environment and not dumping waste in the drainage, median, road setback and open spaces among others.

“Utilise the PSP operators in your area and, most importantly, blow the whistle when you see any infraction that could affect the environment. Say something if you see something,” he stressed.

He apologised to residents that were negatively impacted by the 15-16 hours downpour experienced in the state in the last few days, mentioning areas around the Agungi corridor of Lekki and some areas in Ikorodu.

The commissioner acknowledged similar situations globally and emphasised the need for resilient infrastructure to address flooding issues. He urged builders and developers to carry out due diligence before erecting any building, emphasising the importance of seeking drainage clearance from the ministry before construction begins. (The Guardian)