The Lagos State government has announced its plan to demolish Jankara, Bombota, and Pelewura markets in Lagos Island, where illegal construction of shops and stalls is aiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse and blocking drainages. The decision is aimed at resolving the drainage problems and preventing flooding in the area.
After visiting the flooded areas of Jankara, Ojo Giwa, Oroyiyin, Idumagbo, Bombata, and Pelewura markets on Sunday, October 8, 2023, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu voiced his discontent with the environmental situation and the illegal activities. He declared that the Ministry of Environment would begin to issue notices of demolition to all the existing drains and all the shops that were constructed on the drains on Monday.
Sanwo-Olu said that the government would not allow a few people to endanger the larger population by building structures on drainage channels and throwing waste carelessly. He said that the markets would be totally redesigned and reconstructed according to urban regeneration plans.
Sanwo-Olu also visited the Ilubirin Pumping Station in Lagos Island, where he commended the contractors for the work done and expressed confidence that the project would be completed by the end of December.
