Lagos orders removal of shanties on canal setbacks to prevent flooding

The Lagos State Task Force has initiated the removal of shanties built on canal setbacks across various parts of the state, issuing notices to squatters and illegal occupants.

The move aims to mitigate the frequent flooding experienced during heavy rains in the metropolis.

In a statement on Thursday, spokesperson Gbadeyan Abdulraheem explained, “The notices were served today by the agency’s chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, at locations where squatters had erected shanties and makeshift structures too close to drainage systems, violating physical planning laws requiring a setback of at least 15 feet from canals.”

Akerele emphasized the urgency of the situation, describing the presence of squatters in these areas as a potential hazard exacerbated by unpredictable climate changes worldwide.

He identified specific locations targeted for clearance, including Soluyi Gbaada, Gbagada Bus Stop (Beside Atunrashe Estate), Charlie Boy Bus Stop, and Bajulaiye canal. Akerele noted reports of criminal activities linked to these shanties, such as bag snatching and vandalism, which pose risks to nearby residents and businesses.

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“The removal of these structures will not only mitigate flooding but also help reduce crime in the area,” Akerele assured residents.

Highlighting the unsuitability of shanties in a mega city like Lagos due to environmental concerns and their use by criminals, Akerele reiterated the state government’s commitment to enforcing physical planning laws and maintaining drainage setbacks.

The government’s action follows recent heavy rainfall that caused widespread flooding in early July. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, attributed the receding floodwaters to the clearing of drainages and removal of encroachments on drainage setbacks.

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