Neo-Black Movement of Africa in Lagos has expressed concern about flooding in Lekki and called for a more proactive approach to address the challenge.
The group pledged to work with the government and stakeholders in finding lasting solutions, saying residents who bear the brunt of the crisis be compensated.
The movement noted that flooding in Lekki has become a perennial issue, causing millions of naira losses in property, vehicles, and businesses, and impacting livelihoods.
President of its Lekki Chapter, Erauyi Agbon-Ifo, said: ‘Flooding in Lekki is no longer a one-off natural occurrence, it has become an annual challenge residents face. Families are forced to rebuild their lives and businesses year after year. It is important stakeholders, including government, private organisations, and groups like ours, come together to tackle this issue in a sustainable way.
‘As responsible, tax-paying citizens, residents also deserve compensation for the losses caused by government’s lack of preparation. Beyond long-term solutions, we urge the state to establish a compensation and insurance framework that acknowledges sacrifices of residents and provides them with the relief they deserve.’
The movement sympathised with residents affected by the latest floods and underscored the need for transparent flood management projects, improved infrastructure maintenance, and more public awareness on flood prevention.
Agbon-Ifo noted that while other coastal states as Rivers experience heavy rains, they do not face the same scale of flooding witnessed in Lekki, which indicates the need for more action in Lagos.
The movement commemorated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and called on leaders to renew their commitment to welfare of citizens.
‘As we celebrate this milestone, we believe true leadership is when government prioritises safety, security, and wellbeing of people. Together, we can make flooding a thing of the past,’ he said.