The Lagos State Government through the Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) said it observed with grave concern the unauthorised and indiscriminate drilling of boreholes and groundwater abstraction across Lagos State without requisite permits and approvals.

In a statement on Thursday by the Executive Secretary of LASWARCO, Oluwabukola Khadijah Adeyemo, the government condemned illegal borehole drilling and groundwater abstraction conducted without valid authorisation from the commission.

Ms Adeyemo said LASWARCO was statutorily mandated under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, to regulate borehole drilling, groundwater abstraction and water supply services in the State.

The executive secretary warned that such unlawful activities could pose serious public health risks, lead to groundwater contamination, contribute to land subsidence and threaten the long-term water security of millions of Lagos State residents. 

Ms Adeyemo stated, “Drilling or abstracting groundwater without LASWARCO authorisation is illegal and punishable under the Law. 

“Every unregulated borehole endangers our collective future and compromises the sustainability of our environment. All intending drillers and abstractors must obtain the necessary permits from LASWARCO.”

She added that the commission would not hesitate to seal any facility found in violation and prosecute offenders.

She, therefore, called on residents, community leaders and stakeholders to support the government’s enforcement drive, stressing that when they saw illegal borehole drilling or groundwater abstraction in their areas, they should report it immediately to LASWARCO via its Hotline: 0816 878 2223 or visit its office at Block 19, 3rd Floor, Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, for prompt action.