Lagos Threatens to Seal Properties With Unauthorised Boreholes

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Lagos State government has said it would prosecute property owners in the state who drilled boreholes without obtaining approval.

The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO), Ms Oluwabukola Khadijah Adeyemo, said it is illegal to drill boreholes and engage in groundwater abstraction without requisite permits and approvals.

She declared that the state government would seal properties that failed to obtain the necessary valid authorisation from her agency.

According to her, LASWARCO is statutorily mandated under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, to regulate borehole drilling, groundwater abstraction and water supply services in the state.

She warned that such unlawful activities pose serious public health risks, can lead to groundwater contamination, contribute to land subsidence and threaten the long-term water security of millions of Lagos residents.

“Drilling or abstracting groundwater without LASWARCO authorisation is illegal and punishable under the Law.

“Every unregulated borehole endangers our collective future and compromises the sustainability of our environment. All intending drillers and abstractors must obtain the necessary permits from LASWARCO,” Ms Adeyemo said.

The scribe called on all residents, community leaders and stakeholders to support the government’s enforcement drive, stressing that when they see illegal borehole drilling or groundwater abstraction in their areas, they should report it immediately to LASWARCO via its hotline: 0816 878 2223 or visit its office at Block 19, 3rd Floor, Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, for prompt action.