I absolutely detest rainy seasons in Lagos! Why? You might innocently ask.
If you live in Lagos or have been to Lagos, you are well aware of the drainage system and gutter situation. It is poor! Believe me when I say it is very very pooooor. The gutters are filled with garbage in most areas. Some sane areas that do not experience the dirt-cluttered gutters, have poor drainage systems and were probably built on water.
This may sound normal in Nigeria but my biggest, personal problem with Lagos during rainy season is the people.
Yesterday, I took a stroll to the pedestrian bridge at the closest bus stop to my house. As I walked, I couldn’t help but notice the patches made by sputum mixed with dust at different sides of the road. Like this was not enough, I saw a man relieving himself of urine in a gutter, I tried to mind my business but he called out ” Aunty no look here o, the thing wey dey here big pass your eye”. I was not even looking!!! Plus he was facing the main road.
There is no mercy in how Lagosians relieve themselves of sputum and Urine on the road, highways, gutters, practically, anywhere. When it rains, the gutters rise because there is nowhere for the accumulated water to flow to, so it mixes with urine, saliva, garbage, you name it. It won’t stop there, it will rise to the streets at ankle level if not more.
It is absolutely disgusting!!!
So why do I hate the rainy season in Lagos?
Simple answer – It is disgusting.
You can try to convince me otherwise, share your reasons why you love the rain, who knows my stance might change but right now… Uber in the rains mehn!
Do check out the Street Glossary and suggest words we can add.
Love,
Einsteinette.