…As govt commences demolition of illegal shanties, structures on RoWs

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Residents of Ibeju-Lekki and environs are currently faced with the imminent danger posed by persistent flooding as a result of heavy rainfall.

For the past two weeks, the entire communities have been submerged in heavy flood forcing some occupants to abandon their   properties and relocate to other areas.

However, deeply concerned by the development, Lagos State House of Assembly has directed the state Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure to provide immediate palliative measures to some identified flooded communities in Ibeju Lekki and environs.

Hon. Fatai Mojeed, representing Ibeju Lekki Constituency I pressed for the directive

Demolition of illegal structures

Meantime, as part of on-going efforts to rid the state of all environmental nuisances, the Ministry of the Environment, through the Enforcement and Advocacy Department, yesterday, commenced the demolition of all illegal structures along Right of Ways, RoWs and set-backs around Magodo Area, Ikosi Isheri Local Council Development Area, LCDA. Over 1,500 illegal structures were removed in the process.

Leading the team, Director, Enforcement and Advocacy Department of the Ministry of Environment, Dr. Abiodun Afolabi, said the measure became necessary following the expiration of several quit notices and ultimatum issued to occupants and owners of the illegal structures to vacate the place.

Afolabi further explained that it was part of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s determination to ensure compliance to state Environmental Laws as well as ensuring protection of lives and properties of residents.