The Lagos state Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources commissioner, Wahab Tokunbo in a statement cleared air that the ongoing demolition in Ikota, Lekki axis is not targeted at any tribe contrary to the ongoing speculation that the Ibo tribe were the target.
Tokunbo said the exercise is for a cleaner state, as the affected buildings were “erected on the right of way of ikota River, directly obstructing natural channels and worsening flash flooding in the area; especially the Lekki – Ajah corridor (System 156, 157, 44, 44A, and 46).”
He went further to state that the affected owners have been notified earlier in the year after inspection: “The truth is simple: water and hazards know no tribe, colour, or race.
“Only structures within the right of way are being removed. Our goal is to restore the waterways, reduce flooding, and protect lives. We will continue to engage residents with empathy, but non-compliance will not be overlooked irrespective of whom is affected.
“This is about safeguarding everyone, not targeting anyone. The recent flooding on the Island calls for our collective support for finding permanent solution to those issue. We cannot keep complaining of an issue and still attack government for providing solution to said issue.” The commissioner added