Lagos govt warns residents of Lekki, Ikorodu to Relocate over flooding

The Lagos State Government has issued a warning to residents in low-lying communities, urging them to relocate to higher ground due to an increased risk of severe flooding.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, gave the advisory during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, citing projections from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) that forecast heavier rainfall in Lagos in 2025.

Wahab specifically identified the Ajilete area of Ajegunle, Majidu in Ikorodu, and parts of the Lekki corridor as high-risk zones where residents should consider moving to safer locations.

“Those around the Ajilete axis of Lagos — that’s Ajegunle — they have to move. Those along the coastline of Ikorodu, particularly Majidu, have to move. Some areas around the Lekki corridor too, though not all,” he said.

Other areas like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja are expected to remain relatively safe. However, Wahab also urged residents in Isheri, within the OPIC axis, to remain vigilant.

He emphasized that Lagos, being a coastal city, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, which includes flash flooding and rising water levels.

“For those who live in the lowlands of Lagos, they need to temporarily move to higher ground until the rains subside,” he advised.

The warning comes in the aftermath of heavy rainfall between Sunday night and Monday evening, which submerged parts of the state. Viral videos from affected communities showed flooded homes, stranded vehicles, and blocked roads, halting commercial and daily activities across Lagos.

Despite the flooding challenges, Wahab assured residents that the government is actively clearing drainage systems and expanding flood channels to reduce the impact of future downpours.

He called for calm and cooperation from the public as the state continues to implement long-term flood mitigation strategies.