Lagos commissioner, Rhodes-Vivour disagree over waste management, flooding

The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, and the 2027 Lagos gubernatorial hopeful of the African Democratic Congress, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, have clashed over the state government's waste management and flooding control efforts. The dispute erupted after Rhodes-Vivour criticized the state's handling of waste and flooding during an appearance on a television program.

Wahab defended the state's actions, acknowledging some concerns but arguing that Rhodes-Vivour's statements were misleading. Lagos produces an estimated 13,000 to 15,000 tonnes of municipal waste daily, and the Lagos Waste Management Authority, along with private sector operators, collected around 418,500 tonnes of waste in May 2026 alone, averaging 13,200 tonnes per day.

Wahab emphasized that the issue is complex, with delays at disposal sites affecting collection schedules and contributing to refuse accumulation. He highlighted ongoing investments in modern facilities, recycling, and energy recovery projects. When it comes to flooding, Wahab pointed out that the commissioner's criticism should consider Lagos' coastal location, tidal influences, and climate change impacts.

Despite ongoing challenges, Wahab stressed that significant progress has been made in reducing flooding incidents, noting a reduction of 75 to 80 percent statewide. He urged a focus on measurable outcomes rather than negative descriptions of the city's condition.