Residents of Akute, Baale, Alausa and Oke-Aro communities in Ifo 2 State Constituency say they no longer sleep in peace each time the rain falls, as flooding and erosion caused by the Lagos State Government’s water pipeline project have continued to threaten their homes and livelihood.
The residents made these concerns known during a visit by the Ogun State House of Assembly Committee on Justice, Ethics and Public Petitions, led by Hon. Oluseun Adesanya, which stormed the affected areas on Tuesday to assess the extent of the damage.
The lawmakers’ visit followed earlier meetings with the Lagos Water Corporation, the project contractor, Salini Nigeria Limited, and community representatives.
During the inspection, residents lamented that the pipeline project had altered the natural water flow in their neighbourhoods, leading to perennial flooding. Mothers, children and the elderly were said to be the worst hit.
A community member said, “The rain doesn’t just bring water anymore, it brings fear. We live in panic because of what the flood might destroy next.”
The lawmakers, including Honourables Folawewo Salami, Samsideen Lawal and Dickson Awolaja, also interfaced with the Baale Akinosi Area Community Development Council, where they expressed concern over the hazards created by the construction.
Hon. Adesanya assured residents that the Assembly would not hesitate to take decisive steps if corrective measures were not taken immediately.
He explained that another round of stakeholders’ meeting would soon be convened to work out a lasting solution that would ease the pains of the people.
“This is beyond infrastructure. It is about people’s lives, their safety and their future. Something must be done quickly,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Community Development Council, Rev. Joshua Adegbola, confirmed that the disruptions had not only worsened erosion but also caused flooding that displaced families and destroyed property.
He appealed for urgent intervention before the situation escalates further.
