The Labour Party Gubernatorial Candidate for the 2023 Lagos State elections, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has criticized the current administration for its inadequate response to severe flooding caused by heavy rainfalls.
In an interview with ARISE NEWS on Saturday, Rhodes-Vivour claimed the government's interventions lack vision and described their efforts as "mediocre at best."
Rhodes-Vivour, an architect, emphasized that it is feasible to clear all canals in Lagos within two days to improve drainage and prevent floods. He criticized the current administration for failing to take proactive measures despite Lagos being one of the world's fastest sinking cities, with predictions that most of it will be uninhabitable by 2100.
He pointed out that residents face annual destruction of property and businesses due to flooding, causing significant economic damage. "We deal with this every year, yet I have not seen any forward-thinking visionary intervention from this government. Their reactions are mediocre at best," Rhodes-Vivour stated.
Highlighting the government's shortcomings, he remarked on their efficiency in demolitions but criticized their delayed emergency services. "Clearing canals in two days is possible with local government empowerment," he added.
Rhodes-Vivour suggested using climate data to predict heavy rainfall and coordinating with the media to inform the public in advance. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive emergency protocol and public awareness during the dry season.
He also proposed a long-term plan that includes a valve system for roads to manage water flow and a wetland protection policy to absorb excess water. He criticized the current lack of such a policy and the impact of haphazard sandfilling on water absorption.
Rhodes-Vivour concluded by urging the government to adopt a mentality of living with water rather than fighting against it. "Lagos needs to become a sponge city, utilizing wetlands for solar farms, leisure facilities, and parks," he said.
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