…Tokunbo Wahab Leads Crackdown on Environmental Violations
by Babajide Fadoju
The Lagos State Government has issued a directive for the immediate removal of illegal markets and shanties along the System 6c drainage channel at Cele-Ijesha, Odo-Ashimawu, following the expiration of abatement notices previously served to the traders. This move is part of ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns and prevent flooding in the area.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, led a team of state officials on an inspection tour of the Cele/Ilasa drainage channel on Wednesday. During the visit, Wahab emphasized the government’s determination to eliminate the activities obstructing the canal, which have caused significant blockages and environmental degradation.
“Activities such as trading and the construction of shanties under the Cele Pedestrian Bridge, as well as the illegal market, abattoir, and criminal hideouts on the System 6c channel, cannot continue,” Wahab stated. He noted that several complaints had been received from residents regarding these illegal operations, prompting the government’s intervention.
Wahab stressed that the illegal activities in the area extend beyond trading to include various unauthorized structures that have been erected on the drainage channel, under the bridge, and along the major canal. “The channel has effectively become an incinerator due to indiscriminate waste disposal, posing both environmental and safety risks,” he added.
The Commissioner reiterated that while the government supports market operations, they must occur in designated areas. He warned traders against erecting shanties on drainage channels, setbacks, kerbs, and open spaces. He confirmed that quit notices had been served to the traders last week, and the removal operations, which began immediately, would continue through the weekend.
Wahab also highlighted the role of Local Governments in providing proper market facilities for traders, urging them to put designated markets to appropriate use. He advised residents to avoid indiscriminate waste disposal and take ownership of public infrastructure, reminding them of the real and pressing issues of climate change and global warming.
The Lagos State Government remains committed to maintaining a cleaner and safer environment, ensuring that infrastructure such as drainage channels function effectively to prevent flooding and other environmental hazards.