Your Borehole Might Be ‘Shit Water’ — Govt Warns Lekki Residents

News Update

THE Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to residents of the Lekki axis, stating that borehole water in the area may be severely contaminated due to untreated wastewater.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, Mahmood Adegbite, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, said borehole drilling in Lekki could expose residents to serious health risks. His comments were captured in a video aired by Channels Television on Tuesday.

“Anyone digging a borehole within the Lekki axis is probably drinking what I’ll call ‘shit water,’” Mr Adegbite said. He attributed the issue to inadequate wastewater treatment in the area, adding that the government has plans to improve sanitation infrastructure to prevent the spread of disease.

His remarks came amid concerns over flash flooding in Lagos, which has worsened despite significant investments in flood control. He noted that recent heavy rainfall—despite the expected August break—highlighted the need for urgent action on drainage and water management.

Residents Advised to Relocate from Flood-Prone Areas

Also addressing the crisis, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, urged residents in flood-prone areas like Lekki, Ikorodu, and Ajegunle to relocate to safer ground.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Mr Wahab said Lagos, as a coastal city, remains vulnerable to flash flooding and the broader impacts of climate change. He listed safe zones to include Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja.

“Those living in Ajilete (Ajegunle), Ikorodu’s coastal communities, and parts of Lekki should move. We have received weather alerts from NiMet projecting heavier rainfall than last year,” Wahab explained.

Residents of Isheri in the OPIC axis were also urged to remain on alert as the state braces for further downpours, which may overwhelm drainage systems.

The Lagos government continues to appeal for calm while promising improved infrastructure and better emergency response as the rainy season intensifies.