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.
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