Key points
- Residents of Baruwa/Igbo Efon community on the Lekki-Epe corridor have appealed for urgent government intervention over worsening flooding.
- The community blames the flooding on drainage discharge linked to the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
- Residents say homes, roads, businesses and critical infrastructure have suffered extensive damage.
- Community leaders claim more than 250 houses and over 1,200 residents have been affected.
- About 80 businesses are reportedly experiencing operational disruptions and financial losses.
- Residents are seeking emergency flood-control measures and long-term drainage solutions before the peak of the rainy season.
Main story
Residents of the Baruwa/Igbo Efon community along the Lekki-Epe axis of Lagos State have appealed to the Federal Government for urgent intervention over persistent flooding they say is being aggravated by drainage works connected to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
The residents alleged that an open water drainage channel associated with the highway project is directing large volumes of stormwater into the community, leading to repeated flooding of residential compounds, access roads and commercial areas.
According to community leaders, the flooding has not only damaged buildings and perimeter fences but has also disrupted daily life, affected businesses and heightened concerns about public safety.
The appeal was conveyed in a “Save Our Soul” letter addressed to the Federal Government through the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos.
Community representatives said the situation has worsened in recent weeks and could deteriorate further as rainfall intensifies during the peak wet season.
The issues
Residents say the flooding has caused significant destruction of household property, personal belongings and business assets, while also exposing residents to health risks associated with stagnant and contaminated water.
The community further warned that continued water discharge into residential areas could weaken building foundations, trigger structural failures and increase the risk of displacement among vulnerable residents, including children and the elderly.
Community leaders estimate that more than 250 houses are currently exposed to direct flooding threats, while over 1,200 residents have been impacted by recurring water overflow and environmental hazards.
They also noted that approximately 80 small and medium-scale businesses within the area have suffered reduced patronage, operational disruptions and financial losses as a result of restricted access and flood-related damage.
The residents stressed that while they support the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, adequate environmental safeguards and drainage infrastructure must be put in place to protect surrounding communities from unintended consequences.
What’s being said
“We write on behalf of the residents, landlords, business owners, and families within the Baruwa/Igbo Efon community to urgently draw your attention to the worsening environmental and humanitarian situation caused by the open water discharge drain connected to the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project,” the community leaders stated.
“The current drainage discharge arrangement has become a major threat to lives, properties, businesses, and the overall wellbeing of our community. Large volumes of stormwater are being channelled directly into residential and commercial areas without adequate containment, diversion, or supporting drainage infrastructure,” the residents’ association said.
“Residents now live in constant fear that heavier rainfall in the coming weeks may result in catastrophic flooding, collapse of weak structures, destruction of livelihoods, and possible loss of lives,” the association warned.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development through the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project. However, such development should not come at the expense of the safety, homes, businesses, and livelihoods of innocent citizens,” the residents stated.
“This is therefore a passionate Save Our Soul appeal for urgent government intervention before the peak of the rainy season further escalates the damage and suffering within our community,” the association added.
What’s next
Residents are urging the Federal Government to carry out an immediate technical assessment of the affected areas and deploy emergency flood-mitigation measures to prevent further damage.
They are also seeking the construction of sustainable drainage infrastructure, including discharge channels and retention systems, as well as direct engagement between government officials, contractors and community representatives to develop long-term solutions.
With the peak rainy season approaching, pressure is expected to mount on relevant authorities to address the concerns and prevent a potential environmental crisis in the area.
Bottom line
Residents of Baruwa/Igbo Efon say flooding linked to drainage works associated with the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is threatening homes, businesses and livelihoods. While backing the infrastructure project, they are demanding urgent intervention to prevent what they fear could become a major disaster as rainfall intensifies.
