By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Prominent social commentators in Lagos are urging vulnerable individuals living in flood-prone areas, including Ajegunle, Owode Onirin, and Agboyi in Kosofe Local Government, to prioritize their safety and relocate as annual floods continue to devastate these communities. Despite recurring efforts, these floods remain an unresolved issue, causing significant property damage and risking lives.
Omoba Awofeso Rasheed Ololade expressed his frustration over the persistent flooding, describing it as painful to witness human beings enduring the same problems year after year. He emphasized that this issue goes beyond the control of the government, noting that without the option of relocation, it’s nearly impossible for any government to re-channel waterways. Additionally, neighboring countries often release excess water from their dams to prevent dam collapses, which further contributes to the problem.
Awofeso also mentioned that the Nigerian government had failed to implement regulations aimed at establishing necessary flood management facilities in the past. He stressed the importance of safety and encouraged vulnerable individuals to leave flood-prone areas, given the recurring nature of this disaster.
Comrade Mudashiru Ismaila Alabi shared a different perspective, stating that every problem has a solution. He emphasized the need for critical thinking and long-term planning to address this challenge. Alabi pointed out that aside from asking people to vacate, the government should also consider implementing lasting solutions to protect affected communities.
Taiwo Lasisi, the Coordinator for Kosofe/Ikeja LG under the Ta’awun Political Forum, expressed skepticism regarding any immediate resolution, suggesting that divine intervention might be required for a significant change in the affected communities’ circumstances. He noted that past political leaders had not shown a strong commitment to addressing the recurring flood issue, and significant change would likely necessitate external intervention from NGOs and philanthropic organizations.
The issue of annual flooding in Lagos is not a recent one, and despite promises made in the past, such as those by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2010, little has changed for flood victims in the Ajegunle community and other areas in Kosofe Local Government. The affected residents continue to face challenges related to flooding, including property damage and personal hardship, with no lasting solution in sight.