Lagos Council Demolishes Illegal Shanties, Arrests Three Over Blocked Drainage

By Benson Daniel

The Lagos State Government has intensified its environmental enforcement campaign with the demolition of illegal shanties and the arrest of three individuals accused of obstructing drainage channels, as authorities move to reduce the risk of flooding across the state.

The operation, carried out by officials of the local council in collaboration with environmental enforcement agencies, targeted structures erected on drainage setbacks and other unauthorised locations that were identified as impeding the free flow of stormwater.

According to the council, the exercise followed repeated warnings to occupants and property owners to remove illegal structures and desist from activities that block drainage systems. Authorities said compliance remained low, prompting the enforcement action.

Three suspects were apprehended during the operation for allegedly dumping refuse into drainage channels and obstructing waterways, offences the government said contribute significantly to flooding, environmental degradation and public health risks.

Council officials reaffirmed that the state would not tolerate actions capable of undermining ongoing efforts to improve environmental sanitation and protect lives and property, particularly during the rainy season.

They urged residents to dispose of waste responsibly and avoid erecting structures on drainage alignments, warning that violators would face prosecution in accordance with environmental laws.

The demolition forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader strategy to restore drainage infrastructure, improve flood control and ensure a cleaner and safer urban environment.

Authorities also appealed to community leaders and residents to cooperate with environmental agencies by reporting activities that threaten public infrastructure, stressing that collective responsibility is essential to achieving sustainable environmental management across the state.