Lekki Flooding Forces Residents to Rethink Island Living

The recent flooding that submerged parts of Lekki and Eti-Osa Local Government Area has left residents counting losses and questioning the cost of living in Lagos’ most affluent district. Many are now relocating, describing the city as “a sinking sand.”

For Mrs. Abiola Adekoya, a roasted plantain seller in Agungi, the flood nearly claimed her life after she slipped into a manhole during the downpour. “I thought it was all over until someone pulled me out,” she recounted, losing ₦50,000 worth of goods but grateful to be alive.

Businesses and schools also suffered massive losses. Shopping malls at Ikota battled with flooded floors, while The Glory of God School had to move classes online. A staff member lamented, “Our school bus was damaged, and parents are afraid to bring their children back.”

While some residents plan to move back to the mainland, others remain defiant. Michael Paul, who relocated to Lekki a decade ago, admitted, “I came here to prove a point, but it’s not worth the stress anymore.”

Account manager Damilola Adinlewa, however, insists on staying. “I was stuck in traffic for six hours, but I’m not leaving. Government just needs to help residents,” she said.

Experts blame poor drainage and reckless sand-filling of wetlands for worsening floods. Structural engineer Abiodun Adejare warned that continued reclamation of lagoons could weaken the soil and increase building collapse risks.

In response, Lagos Commissioner for the Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, announced a suspension of all reclamation projects lacking Environmental Impact Assessments. He warned developers to comply or face site decommissioning.

Environmentalists urge Lagos to emulate flood-resilient cities like Rotterdam, which invests heavily in water management. With rising sea levels and worsening rains, residents say it’s time for government action, not promises.

As Lekki residents battle recurring floods, one question remains: Is island living still worth the price?