Flooding: Lagos State Assembly seeks immediate clearing of drainage

The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a resolution, urging the Ministry of Environment to clear all drainages and ensure proper carting of refuse to prevent flooding in the state.

The House passed the resolution sequel to a motion raised under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ by Mr Kehinde Joseph (APC-Alimosho II) at plenary.

The lawmakers said that the flooding experience in their constituencies had become alarming and worrisome.

Joseph noted that the flood had damaged houses while others were submerged thereby rendering many residents homeless and property destroyed.

The lawmaker reiterated that drainages and canals had not been cleared and properly channeled.

He said: “Though the causes of the flood have been natural and man-made, there is need for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to be proficient in their duties.”

Contributing, Mr Sanni Okanlawon said the issue of flooding had been recurrent, suggesting the need for proper structure to be put in place and relevant ministries made to take up their responsibilities.

Commenting, Mr Ladi Ajomale said flooding in his constituency was disheartening, while Mr Yishawu Gbolahan suggested the need for a summit where relevant stakeholders would share ideas and come up with lasting solutions.
Also, Mr Rasheed Shabi said there was a need for a stringent policy to be put in place.

Shabi also urged the Local Government chairmen to take responsibility for clearing and fumigating the drainages in their areas.
The Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, who presided over the plenary, urged the relevant agencies to expedite action.

Meranda also called on each of the Local Governments to do the needful while LAWMA should be ready to cart away wastes.

Thereafter, the lawmakers resolved to call on the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services to brief the lawmakers on preparations made by the agency before, during and after the rains.

The House also resolved to call on the Ministry of Information, Security and Strategy to intensify, sensitize and embark on an advocacy programmes aimed at ensuring drainages in the state were cleared.

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi