In alignment with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu’s Cleaner Environmental Agenda for Lagos State, the Chairman of Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon Rasaq Ajala (HRA), along with community leaders from Akala and Idioro, supervised the demolition of illegal structures along drainage systems in the area.
The cleanup initiative began yesterday, resulting in the removal of several illegal structures.
Despite prior warnings to affected residents, many structures remained intact, necessitating the demolition efforts carried out today.
Hon Ajala emphasised the purpose of this exercise, stating, “This action is not meant to penalise those affected but is a crucial step to ensure unobstructed water flow within the community.”
He continued, “Recent heavy rainfall has caused flooding due to the blockage of drains by these structures. We are commencing the operation in my Ward (A2), and similar activities will take place in other wards in the coming days.”
He expressed concern about the environmental hazards posed by these structures, causing disruption in the free flow of water, which affects the community.
Several residents, speaking anonymously, commended the cleanup initiative, with one stating, “We can finally enjoy fresh air in our homes now that these structures are being removed.”
Abosede Olanrewaju Elegbeleye, the Joint CDA Secretary of Owode, Akinbiyi, Idumagbo, and Adegbite, confirmed that prior notices were issued to the community to remove all structures obstructing the drainage.
“We informed the community about today’s exercise in advance,” he mentioned.
The collaborative efforts of HRA leads and community leaders aim to enhance the environmental quality of the Idioro/Akala area and mitigate flooding concerns caused by illegal structures on the drainage system.
