Residents of Mende, Cry out over Abandoned Dredging Equipment causing Flooding

Residents of Mende in Lagos State have raised concerns about abandoned dredging equipment left by the contractor and the Ministry of Waterfront, which they claim has contributed to flooding in the area.

The residents alleged that the equipment, which is not capable of properly dredging the site, has altered the water flow from the lagoon to the creek and canal, causing debris and mud to block the waterway. Presently, the debris and silt which the dredged was brought to clear from the waterway has trapped the dredger and effort to remove must be provided.

They also accuse the contractors of being inexperienced and lacking knowledge about dredging. “The major cause of flooding in Mende is the inadequacy of the equipment brought to the site, despite the funds allocated to the contractor,” they said.

The residents had previously raised alarms over the abandoned dredging project intended for the channelization of the Ikorodu-Mende ferry route and called on the contractor to return to the site.

They allege that the dredging equipment has been abandoned and that engineers are no longer present on site. The concerned residents urge Merited Construction Limited, the company awarded the project, to resume work without further delay. “Since December last year, they have not met the public’s expectations,” they alleged.

The residents are worried if the complacency is due to corruptive action by Engr Shobande that recommended the contractor and Mr Gbajumo, The Permanent Secretary that endorsed the Award without due process

The residents had previously pleaded with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to fulfill his electoral promise to provide water transportation facilities and improve channelization projects in the area.

They expressed anticipation for the governor to commence work on the waterways and pledged their support once the project began.