By Yemi Olakitan, Faridat Salifu
A relentless downpour on Saturday morning in Lagos State has resulted in severe flooding across various parts of the state, causing distress to residents and prompting an emergency response from authorities.
Expressways, streets, and homes were inundated, with affected areas including LASU-Igando road, Lagos-Badagry Expressway, and many others.
Netizens, taking to social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), shared photos and videos depicting the extent of the flooding, drawing attention to the crisis.
In one tragic incident, the flooding in the Lagos area of Ile-Epo, Alimosho Local Government Area, swept away a commercial motorbike rider known as Mr. Abe into a canal.
Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, the Territorial Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), revealed that the motorbike rider had ignored warnings from his colleagues not to ride in the rain. As of the latest update, the victim remains missing.
Among the affected communities, residents of Papa Ashafa and Fashola in the Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA) bore the brunt of the downpour-induced flooding.
Many displaced individuals sought refuge in nearby churches, while others worked to salvage their water-damaged residences.
Vulnerable groups have been relocated to temporary safe facilities. The residents call upon both state and local governments for assistance.
In response to this crisis, Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed, the Director-General of NEMA, swiftly ordered the distribution of relief supplies to assist approximately 200 flood victims in the Orile-Agege Local Government Area.
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These supplies include children’s clothing, women’s clothing, mattresses, antiseptics, and other essential items to provide immediate relief to those affected.
Mr. Farinloye issued a stern caution to Lagos residents, urging them to exercise extreme caution during this period of heavy rainfall.
NEMA, alongside other emergency organizations, conducted assessment exercises at various flashpoints, engaged with impacted communities, and proposed swift solutions to address the dire situations.
In response, the Lagos State government has made the decision to postpone the planned palliative repair works on the Third Mainland Bridge. Initially scheduled for two consecutive Sundays, September 17 and 24, 2023, these repairs have been delayed due to the adverse weather conditions.
The announcement, made by the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, cited the rainfall’s impact on the preliminary preparations for the asphalt pavement repairs undertaken by the Lagos State Public Works Corporation.
The commissioner assured the public that a new date for the palliative works, contingent on weather conditions, will be communicated in due course.
In the meantime, motorists are advised to continue using the bridge while adhering to safety precautions.
The Saturday heavy rainfall, which persisted for more than eight hours, had left numerous residents in dire straits, with concerns mounting over potential losses of life and property.
NEMA issued a cautionary statement, urging residents across Lagos State to exercise extreme caution. The rainfall, which began as early as 0200 hours, persisted for approximately 13 hours.
The Lagos State government has also expressed its sympathy and solidarity with the flood victims and assured them of its support and assistance.
The government has also appealed to residents to cooperate with emergency agencies and adhere to safety measures during this challenging time.
