Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has highlighted the importance of the ongoing clean-up efforts as a crucial step to protect the city from floods and related disasters.
He emphasized that buildings encroaching on the right of way would not be spared, especially considering that the city is already situated below sea level.
During a live media chat on TVC addressing economic challenges, Sanwo-Olu clarified that the government’s aim is not to demolish people’s buildings indiscriminately but to enforce laws regarding the right of way.
He reiterated that this applies to all structures, including those built by government staff.
The governor explained that the clean-up operations in areas like Obalende and Ijora were necessary to safeguard critical infrastructures such as bridges and rail lines against criminal activities like attacks and robbery.
He emphasized the importance of protecting these infrastructures to ensure the safety and longevity of the city’s assets.
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Sanwo-Olu pointed out that Lagos was globally recognized as the 18th preferred city to live in earlier in the year, attributing this to the government’s efforts in ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
He acknowledged that enforcing these measures might be challenging but stressed their importance in maintaining a safe and livable city for all residents.
Addressing concerns about houses affected by the clean-up, Sanwo-Olu assured that the government’s actions were aimed at rescuing the city and not targeting individuals.
He mentioned that affected residents would be compensated or provided with alternative arrangements, but structures obstructing critical infrastructure would need to be removed to ensure the city’s safety.
In conclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and collective responsibility in maintaining a safe and habitable environment for all residents of Lagos.
He urged cooperation and understanding from the public in implementing these measures for the greater good of the city.
