The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the Ministry of Environment and related agencies to clear all drainages and ensure proper carting of refuse in the State.
Consequently, the House will invite the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, to brief the lawmakers on preparations made by the agency before, during and after the rains.
It also asked the Ministry of Information, Security and Strategy to intensify advocacy programmes aimed at ensuring drainages in the state are cleared.
These resolutions were made on Tuesday following a motion raised under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ by Hon. Kehinde Joseph, who said that the flooding experience in his constituency had become alarming.
Hon. Joseph, who represents Alimosho Constituency 02, said that, while some houses were submerged by the flood, others were damaged thereby rendering many residents homeless and property destroyed.
While reiterating that drainages and canals have not been properly channeled, he added: “Though the causes of the flood have been natural and man-made, there is need for Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, to be proficient in their duties.”
Also contributing, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon said the issue of flooding had been recurrent in the state.
He emphasised the need for proper structure to be put in place and relevant ministries made to take up their responsibilities.
Another lawmaker, Hon. Ladi Ajomale, said flooding in his constituency was disheartening, while Hon. Yishawu Gbolahan suggested the conveying of a summit where relevant stakeholders would share ideas and come up with lasting solutions.
Hon. Rasheed Shabi tasked Local Government chairmen to take responsibility for clearing and fumigating the drainages in their areas.
The Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, who presided over the plenary, urged the relevant agencies to expedite action.
She also called on each of the Local Governments to do the needful while Lagos Waste Management Agency, LAWMA, should be ready to cart away wastes.
