The Lagos State Government has attributed the recent flooding in parts of Lekki and its environs to illegal constructions and indiscriminate waste disposal.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X account on Wednesday.

The flash flood, which left vehicles submerged and paralyzed movement for over seven hours, affected Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah, and surrounding areas.

Wahab expressed empathy for residents and commuters impacted by the incident, noting that Lagos, being a coastal city, is naturally prone to flooding — especially during periods of heavy rainfall compounded by tidal lock.

He stressed that the government has continued to invest heavily in drainage infrastructure, regular desilting exercises, and strict enforcement of environmental laws to reduce flooding and safeguard lives and property.

Providing clarity on some affected zones, Wahab explained that at Kusenla, the issue was technical, as the downstream lies about 1.2 meters higher than the invert level of the existing drainage system. According to him, the government has already awarded a project to address this, which includes the installation of a pumping station.

He further noted that flooding around House on the Rock Church was linked to illegal construction on floodplains and indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains — infractions the government has repeatedly warned against.

Wahab appealed to the public for understanding and cooperation, urging Lagosians to keep their environment clean, stop dumping waste in drains, and avoid building on flood-prone areas.

“These kinds of activities worsen flooding and must stop,” he warned, emphasizing that collective responsibility is key to achieving a flood-free Lagos.