Two days ago, there were reports about a section of the Ogun River flowing through the Kara Cattle Market in Lagos which suddenly disappeared.
Earlier reports were that the river ‘dried up’ and from the pictures and videos shared, people were seen walking on it, testing the river bed for firmness.
But the Lagos State Government has issued a warning to residents.
According to the statement signed by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Engr. Adebowale Akinsanya, the river is “blocked by vegetation” and it could “open up at any time with dire consequences.”
Here’s exactly what happened: A thick layer of vegetation was forced atop the river by a heavy storm, and this vegetation created a compact layer over the body of water, creating a false firm land which people have been seen walking on. It is very dangerous because at any time, the vegetation could give way, swallowing whatever is atop it.
Akinsanya added this yesterday:
“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.”
Carrying out any activities on the blockage of this river is unsafe, dangerous and disastrous.
Please keep off.”
