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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Society