Lagos warns Lekki residents: borehole water contaminated with faeces amidst earlier flood alert suggesting relocation

The Lagos State Government has raised alarm over widespread contamination of borehole water in the Lekki area, warning that many residents may be unknowingly consuming faeces-laden water.

At a stakeholders’ meeting, Mahmood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, attributed the contamination to years of unregulated borehole drilling, shallow well depths, and poor wastewater management across the fast-developing corridor.

Adegbite cautioned that the groundwater in Lekki has been severely compromised due to its proximity to septic tanks, inadequate drainage systems, and a high-water table making many boreholes hazardous to public health.

Supporting the warning, the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission revealed that recent inspections led to the sealing of several water factories in the area for failing to meet basic sanitary and quality standards.

Laboratory tests conducted on water samples from boreholes in Lekki showed alarmingly high levels of coliform bacteria, low pH values, and other indicators of sewage infiltration.

Residents have confirmed the issue, complaining of brown, foul-smelling water that is unsafe for cooking or drinking.

Many households now rely on sachet and bottled water for consumption and tanker-supplied water for other domestic needs.

The government has urged residents to halt indiscriminate drilling of boreholes and to obtain proper permits in line with state water laws.

It stressed that drilling too close to septic systems or below recommended depths significantly raises the risk of groundwater pollution.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has warned residents in flood-prone areas like Ajegunle (Ajilete axis), Majidun in Ikorodu, and parts of the Lekki corridor to relocate to higher ground as heavy rainfall continues.

Environment Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, speaking on Channels TV, said the warning is due to Lagos’ coastal nature and the growing impact of climate change, which heightens the risk of flash flooding.

He reassured that areas like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja are safe but urged residents in Isheri OPIC to stay alert.