REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE
The Anambra State Government has issued a strong warning and set the stage for the demolition of illegal structures and shanties across key areas in the state, particularly in the Nnewi axis, as part of its intensified “Operation Show Your Building Permit.”
The State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Chijioke Ojukwu, made this known during a monitoring and sensitisation exercise that took him to Ogbunike Wood Market, Ogidi Building Materials Market, parts of Nnewi, Oye-Agu Market Abagana, and other locations.
The Commissioner specifically observed that lock-up shops constructed by the Njikoka Local Government Area at Oye-Agu Market Abagana violated the state’s physical planning laws, especially due to the absence of adequate parking spaces, and warned that they would be demolished.
He stressed that the state government would not hesitate to pull down any structure whether erected by government, individuals, or groups that contravenes physical planning regulations.
Mr. Ojukwu disclosed that, in view of the built-up nature of the Nnewi axis, Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo has approved a strict two-metre setback rule from walkways for all structures along double carriage roads in the area.
He hinted that in about two weeks, the government would commence the demolition of shanties and other illegal structures causing obstructions within the Nnewi area.
The Commissioner expressed regret that many plazas and shopping malls were developed without sufficient parking provisions for shop owners and customers, resulting in indiscriminate parking on government roads, traffic gridlock, and danger to road users.
Mr. Ojukwu advised developers to always engage qualified and licensed professionals and to acquaint themselves with the state’s physical planning laws to avoid sanctions.
Radio Nigeria Correspondent reports that during the exercise, officials of the ministry marked several shanties and illegal structures in the areas visited. Owners of affected buildings have been directed to present valid building approvals within two weeks or risk outright demolition.
