The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has established a 9-Man Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the problem of land reclamation, which has led to flooding and traffic challenges in the state.
The issue was raised as a Matter of Urgent Public Importance by Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa II).
Land reclamation involves creating new land from the sea by filling the area with rock, cement, clay, and soil to raise the desired height. Deputy Speaker Lasbat Meranda suggested inviting the relevant ministries involved in reclamation to provide information to the House. Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Richard Kasunmu proposed the formation of an Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the issue.
Sylvester Ogunkelu supported the idea of a fact-finding Ad Hoc Committee to investigate organizations and individuals involved in illegal land reclamation. Deputy Chief Whip (Engr.) Setonji David expressed concern about the seriousness of land reclamation in water-logged areas, given that Lagos is below sea level, and it is spreading from Eti-Osa to Badagry.
Princess Omolara Oyekan highlighted the destructive impact of drainage issues on markets and houses in Lagos Island, and emphasized the need to investigate the issuance of permits to companies involved in land reclamation. Solomon Bonu appealed to the relevant ministries responsible for water and land matters to swiftly address the isse.
Other lawmakers expressed their concerns about the high risks associated with land reclamation in water-logged areas and called for prompt action against the parties involved.
