Lagos State authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal dredging and land reclamation along the Lekki coastline, arresting five individuals involved in unauthorized activities. The operation, conducted on Sunday, was spearheaded by the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development in coordination with the Ministries of Physical Planning, Environment and Water Resources, and the Lands Bureau.
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, led the enforcement exercise, highlighting a property at 13A Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, which was sealed for illegally expanding its fence despite multiple warnings. Alebiosu described the act as an example of “legendary audacity,” emphasizing that offenders would face legal action and that reclaimed land could be forfeited to the state.
Physical Planning Commissioner, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, revealed that the property owner initially submitted plans for 1,200 square meters but had unlawfully expanded to 8,000 square meters. “The site is sealed again today, and all approvals will be revoked. It is unsafe as people continue to use it for social activities,” he said.
During the enforcement operation, officials discovered several other illegal dredging and reclamation sites along the Lekki Foreshore. Some operators reportedly fled upon sighting the enforcement team. Alebiosu expressed concern over the widespread unregulated activities, noting that certain dredging operations extended as far as seven kilometers into the lagoon without obtaining Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval.
Permanent Secretaries Mahmood Adegbite (Drainage Services) and Mobolaji Gaji (Environmental Services) warned that blocked water channels resulting from unauthorized reclamation could disrupt the local ecosystem. “We cannot allow these operations to continue,” Gaji stated firmly.
The enforcement team also inspected the Ilubirin housing projects, reassuring residents that the crackdown is part of the broader initiative stemming from the recent Waterfront Summit. Alebiosu reaffirmed that the measures align with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, which prioritizes the protection and sustainable management of Lagos State’s waterfronts.
The Lagos State Government has made it clear that illegal dredging and reclamation activities will no longer be tolerated, signaling a more aggressive approach to safeguarding the state’s waterways and urban waterfront development.
