Residents of the Baruwa-Igbo Efon community along the Lekki-Epe axis of Lagos State have raised concerns over persistent flooding they say is being caused by an open drainage channel linked to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
The residents said the uncontrolled discharge of stormwater into their community has led to recurring flooding of homes and access roads, while also causing structural damage to buildings and perimeter fences.
According to the community, the flooding has destroyed household property, increased health risks associated with stagnant and contaminated water, and disrupted movement within the area.
The residents also said the situation has negatively affected businesses, with several shop owners and commercial operators reporting losses due to reduced accessibility and flood-related damage.
In a Save Our Soul appeal addressed to the Federal Government through the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, the community called for immediate intervention to prevent further damage during the peak of the rainy season.
The appeal, signed by the community’s chairman, Chief Atanda Mudashiru, and secretary, Engr. Zacheus Aladejobi, stated that large volumes of stormwater from the coastal road project are being discharged into residential and commercial areas without adequate drainage infrastructure.
The residents warned that more than 250 houses are currently exposed to flooding and structural damage, while over 1,200 residents have been affected by recurring water overflow and environmental hazards.
They added that approximately 80 small and medium-sized businesses within the community have experienced operational disruptions and financial losses as a result of the flooding.
The association expressed concern that heavier rainfall in the coming weeks could worsen the situation, potentially leading to severe flooding, building collapses, loss of livelihoods and threats to human life.
As part of its demands, the community called on the Federal Government to conduct an immediate technical assessment of the affected areas, implement emergency flood-control measures and construct appropriate drainage infrastructure capable of safely managing stormwater from the highway project.
The residents also urged authorities to engage with community representatives and ensure contractors handling the coastal road project implement proper environmental and drainage management safeguards.
While acknowledging the importance of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, the residents stressed that infrastructure development should not compromise the safety, homes and livelihoods of affected communities.
