Magodo Residents Urge Sanwo-Olu to Stop Construction on Vital Floodplain

Residents of Magodo GRA Phase 2 in Shangisha, Lagos, are calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently halt construction activities on a landlocked gorge within their estate, which they claim was earmarked in the original layout as a crucial flood-control zone.

In a statement issued by the Magodo GRA Phase 2 Community Development Association (CDA) and signed by its Chairman, Niyi Odusi, the community expressed alarm over the environmental and structural risks posed by the ongoing development.

“We’ve raised objections over the years with several state authorities. Now, we’re left with no choice but to appeal to the public before law and order breaks down in the estate,” the statement read.

A Critical Natural Buffer at Risk

The community insists that the gorge functions as a natural waterway, preventing flooding not only in Magodo but also in surrounding districts such as Ikeja, Ogba, and Alausa. The wetland reportedly stretches from under Otedola Bridge through Agiliti and Mile 12, extending to Ikorodu.

“This ecosystem has historically protected the estate from flooding, erosion, and related health hazards,” the residents said.

However, residents allege that in the past year, developers—allegedly backed by top officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning—have resumed attempts to build on the sensitive terrain, despite the area being unsuitable for construction.

Intimidation and Ecological Damage Alleged

The CDA claims that the developer has already demolished an unfinished structure on the site under heavy security presence—an act they view as both intimidating and hazardous to public health.

“The demolition work has caused physical damage to nearby properties and generated serious health concerns,” the statement added.

According to the community, the road leading to the disputed site was personally tarred by residents, and vegetation was planted to help stabilize the slope—both of which are now reportedly endangered by excavation activities.

“Excavation of the cliff has resumed during the rainy season, increasing the risk of landslides and water-related disasters,” the group warned.

Environmental Assessment Ignored

The residents revealed they commissioned an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which confirmed the location as unfit for development. They also noted that drone footage has been captured to document before-and-after changes in the area.

The community expressed concern that this might be part of a larger pattern of “covert efforts to open up protected wetlands for land speculation.”

“This is not just a violation of our estate’s master plan, but a reckless act that undermines decades of environmental safeguarding,” they said.

While acknowledging the government’s right to revise urban plans, the residents insist that any such revision must follow due process, including environmental studies and consultation with stakeholders.

“This is a unilateral decision taken for personal gain, to the detriment of the wider community,” the statement concluded.