In recent times, the Lekki Ikota area of Lagos, Nigeria, has witnessed a series of demolitions by the Lagos State government. The reason behind this drastic action is the perennial issue of flooding, which has caused significant property damage and left many residents in dire straits. However, a question looms large: why did the government issue Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) for these properties in the first place, only to tear them down later?
The Flood Factor:
Lekki Ikota, like many areas in Lagos, has struggled with flooding issues for years. During heavy rains, the streets become waterlogged, and homes are often inundated, causing damage to property and distress to residents. The main reason behind this is the lack of proper drainage systems and the unfortunate fact that many houses have been built on or near the drainage canals.
Government’s Role:
The confusion arises when we consider that the same government that now demolishes these structures had previously granted Certificates of Occupancy, essentially endorsing the construction of these properties. This raises a fundamental question about the government’s responsibility in ensuring safe and sustainable urban development.
What Could Have Been Done:
1. Adequate Planning and Regulation:
The Lagos State government could have taken a proactive approach by implementing strict building regulations and zoning laws. Ensuring that buildings are not constructed in flood-prone areas and are designed to withstand the region’s weather conditions would have gone a long way in preventing the current crisis.
2. Regular Inspections:
Regular inspections of construction projects should be conducted to ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards. This oversight would have detected and prevented the construction of homes on drainage canals.
3. Public Awareness:
The government could have also invested in public awareness campaigns to educate residents and developers about the risks of building in flood-prone areas. Such awareness programs could encourage responsible construction practices.
4. Infrastructure Development:
Investment in proper drainage infrastructure is essential to mitigate flooding. Ensuring that drainage canals are well-maintained and expanded when necessary could have significantly reduced the flood risk in the area.
While the Lagos State government’s recent actions may be an attempt to rectify past mistakes, it is essential to reflect on the collective responsibility in such situations. Preventing this kind of crisis requires a collaborative effort between the government, developers, and residents to ensure sustainable urban development and minimize the human cost of demolitions.
In the end, it’s a lesson for all stakeholders involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people and the sustainability of the environment to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.
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