Residents of Magodo Government Reserved Area (GRA) Phase II in Lagos State have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the alleged encroachment on wetlands around their community, warning that the activities could threaten lives, properties and the environment.
The residents expressed concern that development activities in the environmentally sensitive area could disrupt natural drainage systems and expose the estate and neighbouring communities to increased flooding and soil erosion.
They explained that the wetland serves as a natural collection point for stormwater from areas including Ikeja, Ogba, Agidingbi and Alausa, helping to control flooding and protect nearby properties.
The community warned that building on the wetland or creating access roads through the estate could obstruct the natural flow of water, potentially worsening flooding during the rainy season.
The residents also raised concerns about the security implications of opening up the area to unauthorised access, alleging that previous activities around the wetland had contributed to insecurity within the community.
They called on the Lagos State Government to prevent further encroachment and ensure that any proposed development is subjected to appropriate environmental assessments and consultations with affected residents.
The community further urged the governor to consider alternative access routes that would not pass through the residential estate or interfere with the wetland’s ecological function.
The residents maintained that protecting the area was necessary to safeguard the community’s environment and prevent potential damage to existing buildings and infrastructure.
