Lagos Declares War on Illegal Bridge Trading as Wahab Sounds Flood Alarm

The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to unauthorized traders operating beneath critical bridges across the state, especially around Idumagbo and the Third Mainland Bridge. The government’s renewed resolve comes amid intensified flood control efforts and infrastructure developments targeted at reducing perennial flooding in areas such as Banana Island and Park View Estate.

ACCORDING TO IREPORTER ONLINE, the state’s Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, led an inspection team on Saturday, July 19, 2025, to monitor the progress of the government’s drainage expansion projects. The tour revealed major milestones in flood mitigation, including the ongoing construction of the Onikoyi/Turnbull drainage collector, a key project expected to improve runoff management and link major drainage arteries in affluent communities.

Wahab expressed concern over the re-emergence of illegal trading activities beneath bridge structures that had already been cleared, noting that such encroachments not only endanger lives but also obstruct the government’s long-term infrastructure objectives. ACCORDING TO IREPORTER ONLINE, he emphasized that these bridge zones are not intended for commercial use, but serve as vital flood control channels and must remain unobstructed for public safety.

In a strong message to defiant traders, Wahab warned that continued disregard for state directives could lead to preventable tragedies, for which blame would be unfairly directed at the authorities. He added that efforts are underway to convert the affected spaces into regulated parks and green zones, a move already approved by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK). Until that conversion is completed, all informal trading at those locations must cease immediately.

The commissioner made it clear that compliance from residents is non-negotiable. ACCORDING TO IREPORTER ONLINE, Wahab stated that Lagos is committed to building resilient systems that protect life and property but stressed that collective responsibility is essential for lasting success. He concluded by urging the public to respect environmental infrastructure and support the government’s vision for a safer, flood-resilient Lagos.