VIDEO: Actor Kunle Remi blames Nigerians ‘dirtiness’ for Lagos floods

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced on Monday that flight operations had resumed at the temporary international terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos after being disrupted by flooding. The incident, which occurred on Sunday due to heavy rainfall, led to the temporary suspension of operations at the terminal and the relocation of several airlines, including Air France-KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, and Fly Gabon, to Terminal Two. According to FAAN's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, the flooding was caused by drainage disruptions linked to ongoing construction works at the airport. He emphasized that the situation was swiftly managed using contingency measures, ensuring that no flights were canceled and passenger safety was maintained throughout.

The flooding, which submerged parts of the terminal and affected critical infrastructure such as the powerhouse, prompted the airport authorities to take emergency steps, including switching off electricity as a safety measure. Engineers and contractors were deployed to address the drainage issues, and the affected airlines were eventually able to return to the temporary terminal once conditions normalized. Agbebire also revealed that FAAN has initiated corrective measures aimed at strengthening the airport’s drainage system to mitigate the risk of similar incidents during the upcoming rainy season. These efforts include monitoring developments and prioritizing improvements in drainage infrastructure to enhance resilience against future weather-related disruptions.

While the focus remains on restoring normal operations at MMIA, the broader implications of the flooding extend beyond the airport. Heavy rainfall on Sunday caused widespread flooding across Lagos, submerging major roads, residential areas, and commercial hubs such as Oshodi. In Oshodi, a densely populated and economically vital area, floodwaters receded within 24 hours, allowing gradual resumption of commercial activities. However, many shops remained closed not due to the flooding itself, but as a result of mourning the death of the Iyaloja of Oshodi, Sikirat Adeyanju, known as Socopau. Despite the return of normalcy, residents and traders expressed concerns over the city’s persistent drainage challenges, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and waste management practices to minimize the impact of future downpours.

Amid these developments, Nigerian actor Kunle Remi sparked controversy with a viral video in which he blamed the "dirtiness" of Nigerians for the recurrent flooding in Lagos. In the video, Remi criticized the community’s waste disposal habits, suggesting that improper disposal of trash leads to clogged drains and exacerbates flooding. His remarks, though controversial, resonated with some members of the public who acknowledged the role of littering in contributing to the crisis. However, others argued that the issue is far more complex, involving inadequate urban planning, insufficient investment in drainage systems, and weak enforcement of environmental regulations. Critics pointed out that while public behavior does play a part, systemic failures in governance and infrastructure must also be addressed to effectively combat flooding.

The Lagos State government has faced increasing pressure to improve its response to flooding, particularly after warnings issued weeks prior to the recent downpours. Officials have reiterated commitments to clearing drainages and enhancing waste management, but progress has been slow. Recent actions, such as the demolition of drainage encroachments and the establishment of a waste police unit by the Lagos State Environmental Management Agency (LAWMA), suggest a growing recognition of the urgency of the situation. Nevertheless, many residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures, emphasizing that long-term solutions require sustained investment and political will.

Looking ahead, the immediate focus will likely shift toward addressing the root causes of flooding in Lagos. This includes not only improving drainage infrastructure and enforcing waste management policies but also fostering a culture of responsibility among citizens. As the rainy season continues, the challenge of managing water flow and preventing disaster will remain a pressing concern for both local authorities and the wider population. With the recent incidents serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities facing the city, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether meaningful progress can be made in safeguarding Lagos against future flooding crises.