27th October, 2010
The Chairman of Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area of Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria, Mr. Kayode Robert, has said that stiff penalty awaits residents that dump refuse in the drainage systems in the council area.
He gave the warning at Igbonla community ravaged by flood as a result of blocked drain channels and canals.
The council chief was in the community to evaluate the extent of damage done by the flood and work out ways of assisting the victims.
The chairman noted that even though there is work to be done in clearing the river of refuse, there is much more to be done by the residents of the area.
According to him, the disaster was caused by the river near the community which overflowed its bank as a result indiscriminate dumping of refuse and building of houses on the river bank, which he warned the residents to desist from doing, noting that construction of buildings along the river pathway may also be responsible for the flood.
The council boss informed the residents that his administration has launched an enlightenment campaign to sensitise them on the need to keep a clean environment as well as vigorously pursue the state government’s green initiative.
While commending the environmental officers for their commitment and support, Robert said his administration is not resting on its oars to get rid of dirt and filth in the area.
