The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed the cleanup of drainages along federal roads in Lagos State to reduce flooding on the highways.

This was announced by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olukorede Kesha, in a statement on Thursday.

This directive follows significant disruptions caused by a 10-hour downpour on Wednesday, which affected business and commercial activities in Lagos and Ogun states.

The heavy rain resulted in the collapse of a two-storey building in the Mushin area of Lagos, halted vehicular movement, and affected thousands of residents. Many pupils were unable to attend school due to the flooding.

Journalists visiting flooded areas like Iyana-Oworo, Agege, Ijegun-Isheri Osun, Gbagada, and Lagos Island in Lagos State observed that both roads and houses were submerged due to the prolonged downpour. Other affected areas in Lagos included Eredo, Bojije, Epe, Sangotedo, Ibeju-Lekki, Awoyaya, Labora, and Abijon.

Despite these incidents, Kesha clarified that Lagos was not facing widespread flooding.

“We wish to clarify that contrary to some reports, Lagos is not experiencing widespread submergence from floodwaters. However, the ministry acknowledges that localised flooding has affected certain sections of federal roads within the city,” Kesha said.

She explained the minister’s actions, stating, “The minister has directed the desilting of drains along federal roads in the state with a view to deflooding the highways. Our teams are currently deployed to assess the situation while the desilting of drains along the affected roads is currently being carried out. The ministry understands the inconvenience caused by these flash floods and is committed to eliminating the disruptions caused thereafter.”