Atiku sympathises with Lagos flood victims

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sympathised with victims of heavy rain on Sunday that flooded large sections of Lagos, blocking major roads and submerging residential estates.

In a post via his X handle on Tuesday, the ADC presidential candidate prayed for the safety of all and a swift return to normalcy.

The post read, “I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the people of Lagos who have been affected by the ongoing flooding. My thoughts are with the families, motorists, commuters, business owners, and everyone whose lives and livelihoods were disrupted by this unfortunate event.

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“At moments like this, we are reminded of the strength of our shared humanity and the importance of standing together in support of one another. I pray for the safety of all, for a swift return to normalcy.”

The flood in Lagos on Sunday forced the temporary shutdown of a terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA).

Canals in multiple areas were choked with plastic waste, tyres, rubber and other debris, which residents say blocked water flow.

The worst-hit areas included Oshodi, Opeki Road in Mosan-Okunola LCDA, Abesan Estate, Ilupeju Road, Mushin, Fashoro Street in Surulere, Akowonjo Road in Egbeda, Gbagada Expressway, and Idi-Oro.

The downpour, which lasted several hours, halted commercial activity in many parts of the city. Some commuters abandoned the trapped buses and continued on foot.

Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said there was “no cause for panic,” describing it as flash flooding that would subside after the rain. He noted that such incidents are common in coastal cities during heavy rain and that high lagoon levels can delay stormwater discharge.

Wahab said the state carries out year-round drainage maintenance, but residents must also stop dumping waste in drains and building on drainage setbacks.

He added that drainage investments and enforcement have reduced flood severity despite heavier rainfall.

The flooding came two weeks after the state warned that Apapa, Badagry, Epe, Eti-Osa, Ikeja, Ikorodu, Ikoyi, Lagos Island, Lekki, Ojo, Orile-Age, Surulere, Agege, Alimosho and Kosofe were at “critical flood risk.”

Residents were urged to stay alert and keep drains clear.

Sunday’s floods have renewed concerns about drainage maintenance and waste management in Lagos as the peak of the rainy season nears.