FLOOD ALERT : Lagos Assembly  Tasks Environment Ministry To Commence Immediate Drainage Across LGAs

The Lagos State House Assembly on Tuesday asked the Ministry of Environment to commence immediate clearing of drainage channels and canals across the State.

Hon. Kehinde Joseph representing Alimosho Constituency 2 raised the issue under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ at plenary.

According to him, heavy rains in the State as predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, (NIMET) have damaged some houses in his constituency while some buildings have been submerged by flood with properties destroyed.

The lawmaker complained of blocked drainage channels and canals, saying there was need for the Ministry of Environment to act urgently while the Ministry of Information should carry out sensitisation of Lagosians to stop indiscriminate dumping of refuse.

In his contribution, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu representing Eti-Osa Constituency 2 said flooding in the State was as a result of climate change and rise in the sea level.

Hon. Temitope Adewale representing one of the constituencies of Ifako Ijaiye suggested the reintroduction of environmental sanitation to make residents clear their gutters.

Hon. Ladi Ajomale said flooding in his constituency was disheartening, while Hon. Rasheed Shabi said there was need for a stringent policy to be put in place.

He tasked Local Government chairman to take the responsibility of clearing and fumigating the drainages in their areas.

Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, who presided over the plenary, urged the relevant agencies to expedite action. She also called on each of the Local Governments to do the needful while LAWMA should be ready to play its role.

Meanwhile, the House confirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s nominee, Tolani Akibu, whose name was initially stepped down by the lawmakers.