Parts of the Ikorodu area in Lagos State were thrown into chaos over the weekend as heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in several communities, leaving many stranded and homes submerged.
In viral videos circulating online, residents in the Ijede area were seen forming a human queue while struggling to navigate through flooded streets.
Some walked barefoot, while others held their bags tightly, attempting to step carefully over murky waters that had taken over their roads.
The situation has raised serious concerns, with residents pleading for urgent intervention.
One woman, speaking in Yoruba in a trending video, said, “We are in Oko Ope in Ijede. Have mercy on us. This is our community. We can’t even enter the house, the flood has damaged everything. I’m not even wearing a footwear. Come and save us, today is 4th of August, 2025. Come and rescue people.”
Flooding in Lagos is far from a new issue. However, the recent incident in Ijede seems to have pushed residents to the edge.
In another video, a man was heard saying, “This is what I’m facing in my area in Ijede. From August 3-4, Monday morning, inside and outside my house is full of water. Big ocean. See cars inside water.”
Meanwhile, weather forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency warn that more thundery and rainy conditions are expected from Monday through Wednesday.
The warning includes a possible risk of flash floods, especially in vulnerable areas.
In response to the viral videos and rising public concern, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued a statement on X.com on Monday.
He reassured residents that the government is aware of the situation and is working on lasting solutions.
“We have seen the trending video and fully understand the concerns it has raised,” Wahab wrote.
He explained that the current drainage project in the area is part of a broader plan initiated by Governor Sanwo-Olu to permanently address flooding issues.
He added, “I have directed the contractor to immediately commence excavation work toward the discharge point and to prioritise the construction of culverts. The concrete lining, which is part of the broader project scope, will continue once the culvert work is stabilised.”
Despite reassurances, locals are urging the government to not only act swiftly but ensure quality infrastructure is delivered.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience residents are currently facing.
This is temporary,” Wahab noted in his post. “What we are doing now is laying the groundwork for a permanent fix that will improve the quality of life for everyone in that area.”
