The Lagos State Government on Monday warned residents to keep off the Ogun River, near the Kara Cattle Market which was recently blocked by
vegetation, saying that the river could open up at any time with dire
consequences.
Last weekend, the river was taken over by vegetation, caused by a heavy
storm, which created a compacted layer over the river. Residents in the
area were stunned by the incident and turned the area to a tourist site
of some sort, with some residents seen walking on the blocked river and
taking pictures. But the State Government in a statement signed by the
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Engr. Adebowale
Akinsanya, said it was dangerous for residents to besiege the dry area
as the flow of the river was still active beneath.
He said,
“It is important to notify the public that have been worried about the
environmental consequence of a dried up river to note that the flow of
the river is still active beneath the vegetation and the situation is
been evaluated. However, because of the compacted nature of the
vegetation residents and onlookers are of the erroneous belief that the
river has suddenly dried up and can walk across the vegetation.
“A lot of people that have turned the place to a tourist destination are
unaware of the danger lying ahead. It’s important for the public to be
aware that the vegetation can give away at any time and can lead to a
potential disastrous situation,” he said.
He also advised residents to go about their lawful business and as well
desist from the habit of parking on the bridge to take pictures, which
according to him was causing serious traffic, hardship and loss of
business time to other commuters on the road.
“Carrying out any activities on the blockage of this river is unsafe,
dangerous and disastrous. Please keep off,” Akinsanya warned.
Signed
ENGR. Adebowale Akinsanya
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development
JUNE 20, 2016
