Govt Calls for Calm as Heavy Rains Devastate Lagos State, City Sinks

T The Lagos State Government on Monday called for calm following over 12 hours of heavy rainfall that led to flash floods across parts of the city, disrupting movement and raising safety concerns among residents.

In an official statement, the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, acknowledged the situation, assuring the public that measures were in place to address the flooding and prevent further damage.

Wahab referenced a fresh advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which predicted continued heavy rains and thunderstorms over the next three days. “It is not impossible that some parts of the state may experience flash flooding because of the inability of the major collectors to contain the run-off resulting from the very heavy rainfalls,” he stated.

He emphasized that Lagos’ coastal nature and the growing impact of climate change make the state particularly susceptible to flash floods. “Lagos, being a coastal state—with the heavy rainfalls—the level of water in the lagoon is bound to rise and will result in a tidal lock, which will prevent discharge from all collectors,” Wahab explained.

The Commissioner advised residents in low-lying communities and areas close to rivers and lagoons to be vigilant, warning that the floods may come with dangerous high currents. He particularly urged parents to ensure their children remain indoors during the school holiday to avoid risky play in flooded areas.

Motorists and pedestrians were also warned against attempting to drive or walk through floodwaters, as vehicles could be submerged and lives endangered.

Wahab further cautioned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage systems during rainfall, noting that such acts block the flow of water and worsen flooding. “There are consequences for such acts,” he warned.

He added that the state government is intensifying year-round drainage cleaning and maintenance and has awarded contracts for concrete lining of new channels to improve runoff capacity.

“Whenever more than usual rain falls in Lagos, as witnessed in the last 12 hours plus, all concerted efforts are required to checkmate its effects,” Wahab said.