By OLAITAN IDRIS

The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all reclamation projects, regardless of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval or drainage clearance.

The directive is contained in a statement signed by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, and issued by the ministry’s spokesman, Mr Kunle Adeshina.

Wahab mandated all approved reclamation projects be submitted to the ministry for proper documentation and monitoring within seven days.

He stressed that all ongoing or proposed reclamation must undergo the EIA process and secure approval and drainage clearance from the Environment and Water Resources ministry.

He warned that non-compliance would force the ministry to decommission such sites, which could include excavation, removal of landfill, and reconnection of blocked water channels.

The commissioner added that offenders found on illegal reclamation sites after the grace period would be arrested and prosecuted.

He expressed concern about widespread reclamation on wetlands, floodplains, and lagoons, identifying hotspots including Parkview, Banana Island, and Osborne.

Others are Ikoyi, Victoria Island Extension, Lekki, Ajah, Ikorodu, Oworonshoki, Lagos Mainland, Ojo, and Badagry.

Wahab described the activities as reckless, carried out without regard for environmental impact or the safety of Lagos residents.

He warned that while reclamation may create space for housing and infrastructure, it carries major risks including flooding, erosion, biodiversity loss, and damage to water quality.

According to him, the government would not allow the indiscriminate reclamation of lagoons, wetlands, and floodplains to continue unchecked. (NAN)