Daniel Kanu
A non-governmental and need-meeting organisation, Spaces for Change, has asked the Lagos State Government to put infrastructure on the ground that could accommodate persons likely to be displaced by the predicted coming flood.
The group made the appeal following an alert by the Lagos government on October 23, warning residents of certain communities to relocate to higher ground areas.
The communities on the throes of the flood danger include; Alagbole, Meiran, Maidan, Kara, Isheri-Olowora, Agiliti, Owode-Onirin, Owode-Elede, Agboyi I, Agboyi II, Ajegunle, Itowolo, Majidun, Ibeshe, Baiyeku, Maidan, Lekki-Ajah, and the boundaries adjacent to the Lagos Lagoon.
In a statement, Spaces for Change which also is committed to safeguarding housing rights and preventing mass displacement, said the government should go beyond mere advisory and put plans on the ground to relocate persons likely to be displaced by the coming flood.
“Spaces for Change, therefore, tasked the Lagos State Government to promptly provide clear information concerning the following;
Alternative emergency shelters that are adequately equipped with essential supplies, medical facilities, and trained personnel to support evacuees in their time of need.
Accessible means of transportation to facilitate the relocation of affected individuals from their current locations to the designated emergency shelters.
Addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, people with disabilities, women, and children, to guarantee their safe evacuation and relocation.
“In the spirit of collaboration and a shared commitment to the protection of housing rights and the welfare of all citizens, we implore the Lagos State Government to take the lead in this process, allowing stakeholders, including the private sector and humanitarian groups, to provide support and complement the State’s efforts. In times of crisis, the importance of efficient communication and cooperation between the government, civil society, and the media cannot be overstated. These elements are vital to ensuring a coordinated response to the imminent flooding.”