The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has sounded the alarm that Lagos is facing a serious threat from climate change, similar to the situation in New York City, USA. Speaking at a Strategic Management Meeting with Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and other stakeholders organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Hamzat warned that the state is at risk of sinking if urgent measures are not taken.
“Today, Lagos and New York City are sinking,” Hamzat emphasized, highlighting the urgent need to address climate-related challenges.
He explained that Lagos, with its extensive 180-kilometer shoreline, is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, which could lead to parts of the city becoming submerged. He pointed out that other regions like the United Kingdom and New York City are already seeing people relocate to safer areas due to climate risks, and he cautioned that Lagos could face a similar fate if action is not taken.
The Deputy Governor identified three main threats to Lagos: extreme heat, climate change, and rising sea levels. He stressed that in the coming 20 to 25 years, the state must prioritize preserving specific areas to mitigate the impact of these challenges. Hamzat urged residents and officials alike to take immediate steps to protect Lagos from the dangers posed by climate change, emphasizing the need for collective action to prevent future disasters.
Justice System Reforms Discussed
During the same event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, outlined the purpose of the meeting, which focused on reducing government litigation in the courts. Pedro highlighted the need to prevent unnecessary legal cases that could burden the justice system and slow down the delivery of justice in Lagos.
“The aim is to ensure that we minimize avoidable legal cases that can slow down our justice delivery system,” Pedro noted.
He emphasized that cooperation between the government and stakeholders would be essential for effective management and resolution of disputes, helping to keep the justice system efficient.
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Ogun State Government Advises Flood-Affected Residents to Relocate
Meanwhile, in nearby Ogun State, the government has advised residents living in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground following the recent release of water from the Oyan Dam. The release was carried out by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (ORBDA) to prevent damage from excess water, which has affected several communities.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, explained the situation, noting that areas like Isheri, Riverview Estate, Oshorun Estate, OPIC Estate, Arepo, Mawere, Akute, Alagbole, Orimerunmu, and Magboro have been impacted by the flooding. He urged residents to heed earlier warnings and relocate temporarily to avoid further risk.
“The release of excess water from the dam is necessary to prevent more severe damage, but we understand the inconvenience it causes to residents,” Oresanya said.
He assured that the water levels would begin to recede significantly from Friday, October 25, as waterways, canals, and other drainage systems help to manage the floodwaters.