THE Lagos State Government has asked residents to remain calm and vigilant following the torrential rain which caused flooding in the Victoria Island, Lekki and other parts of the state.

Babatunde Adejare, the state commissioner for the Environment, who spoke on Sunday, July 9, after inspecting areas affected by the flood, assured residents that the government had activated its emergency response system to respond efficiently where necessary.

He said the flooding would recede after a period of time, attributing it to the high tide of the lagoon, which slowed down the flow of rainwater from drainage channels.

The commissioner said: “The government is concerned about the flooding in some parts of Victoria Island, Lekki, Oniru and environs. We urge residents to call 112 and 767 emergency lines for quick action on any situation.”

Adejare warned Lagosians against indiscriminate dumping of refuse, especially in drainage channels, saying such could lead to health hazards and loss of lives and property.

“Also, the people blocking drainage channels should know that their action caused all these problems. So, they should stop it because it has affected some people adversely,” he added.

The commissioner said the government was concerned about the safety of residents, hence, the continuous call on those living in flood-prone areas to relocate temporarily pending when the rain receded.

“If, however, you are living upland and it is raining persistently and it is not compulsory for you to go out, please stay indoors,” he said further.

—  Jul 10, 2017 @ 11:30 GMT