Heavy Rain Grounds Lagos, Triggers Transport Fare Hike

LAGOS — Heavy rainfall on Monday disrupted movement across several parts of Lagos, leaving commuters stranded, worsening traffic congestion and prompting transport operators to increase fares.

Residents who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) described the downpour as one of the heaviest in recent weeks, saying it flooded major roads, delayed businesses and affected productivity.

Many commuters were forced to trek through flooded streets, endure prolonged traffic and pay higher transport fares to reach their destinations.

A resident of Alimosho, Mrs. Odion Okiade, said transport fares increased by at least ₦1,500 whenever it rained, adding that Monday’s downpour placed an additional financial burden on residents already grappling with the rising cost of living.

Another commuter, Mrs. Nkiru Ogbonna, who travelled from Costain, said she had to wade through knee-deep floodwaters before getting to her office, describing the experience as a recurring challenge during periods of heavy rainfall.

Mrs. Chineme Onuoha, who commutes from the Cele area, said a journey that normally takes between three and five minutes to Costain lasted about 25 minutes due to severe traffic congestion caused by the rain.

Similarly, another commuter identified as Mrs. Lilian said it took about 45 minutes to travel from Orile to Costain, adding that despite wearing a raincoat, she arrived at work soaked and exhausted after paying increased transport fares.

In Ayobo, near the Lagos-Ogun boundary, resident Mrs. Deborah said rising water levels from the nearby river frequently disrupt movement whenever heavy rain occurs, calling for improved flood control measures in vulnerable communities.

Also speaking, Mrs. Oluchi Uzoma, a resident of Fantasy Island near Agbado, blamed persistent flooding on indiscriminate waste disposal, saying blocked drainage channels have left roads impassable, damaged infrastructure and disrupted businesses.

She urged residents to stop dumping refuse in gutters and waterways, stressing that proper waste disposal would help reduce flooding in affected communities.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warned that rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to persist across Lagos and other parts of southern Nigeria.

The agency advised motorists to drive cautiously due to slippery roads and poor visibility, while urging residents to avoid flooded roads, drainage channels, trees and power lines during thunderstorms.