On January 23, 2025, the Lagos State Government issued a 48-hour ultimatum to traders operating under the Apongbon Bridge and along drainage setbacks on Lagos Island. This directive is part of the ongoing urban regeneration efforts aimed at addressing environmental concerns and improving infrastructure in the area.
During an inspection of the Savage/Elegbata-Bombata Drainage Channel near the Apongbon axis, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, expressed concerns over the negative impact of human activities in the area, noting that they contribute significantly to flooding and pose serious threats to lives and properties. He emphasized that the misuse of infrastructure hampers the effectiveness of the regeneration process.
The commissioner observed that traders had converted spaces under the Apongbon Bridge into makeshift markets, further obstructing the drainage system. He ordered their immediate relocation to designated markets, warning that their activities were blocking critical drainage channels.
Wahab also directed the sealing of two construction sites—one on Alakoro Martins Street and another in Ebute Ero Market—for obstructing drainage channels with building materials. He stated that the buildings would remain sealed until the offenders removed the materials and cleaned the affected drainage channels.
The government has emphasized that compliance with these directives is mandatory, and enforcement actions will be taken against violators. Traders and residents are urged to adhere to the government’s instructions to facilitate the successful implementation of the urban regeneration project and to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
