The Lagos State Commissioner, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab has warned Lagosians against the blocking of drainage systems and clogging of canals.
Wahab gave the warning on Monday in a post he shared on his official X account while referring to the flood in Spain.
“Difficult decisions must sometimes be made, prioritizing the greater public good. When drainage systems are blocked or canals are clogged, the consequences are dire, affecting every one of us irrespective of our religion, tribe or ethnic group,” Wahab warned.
“The Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources may be leading these efforts, but this is not merely about one leader, it is about the safety and well-being of all Lagosians. Let’s stand together for a safer, more resilient Lagos.”
Wahab said it is never about ethnicity, tribe or religion, lamenting cars piled like toys, water slushing through the streets and the gory scenes from the vibrant streets of Valencia to the serene coastal town of Cadaquez.
He said situations like the one currently being experienced in Spain should have everyone concerned because we are witnessing the harsh reality of a planet under siege.
The commissioner said the effects of climate change are indiscriminate, transcending gender, race, tribe, or religion, adding that this is why Lagos State must act now to prevent reaching a point of no return.
“Even in highly advanced environments, vigilance is constant. The city of London, for instance, recently carried out cleanups and removals, understanding that resilience against climate change requires ongoing effort,” Wahab said.
He warned that Lagosians cannot afford to ignore this issue or dismiss it as someone else’s responsibility.
According to him, protecting our communities is not just the work of a single commissioner but a collective responsibility that affects everyone.