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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