Anambra State Joint Task Force on Illegal Structures has embarked on a demolition exercise in parts of Onitsha metropolis.
The exercise, spearheaded by the State Physical Planning Board, was carried out Omalima and Irunkwo Phase One and Two, as well as Nkisi Layout Onitsha, where illegal structures and shanties were removed .
This move by the building control team became necessary as many of the structures posed a threat to public safety and were not in compliance with building codes and regulations.
Many structures were identified for demolition, including shanties, makeshift shops, and unapproved buildings and it was gathered that the state government had given enough notices to the owners of the structures to vacate the premises, but many had refused to comply.
The demolition exercise was carried out in a professional and orderly manner, with government officials and security personnel present to ensure the safety of all concerned.
The state government also promised to continue the demolition exercise until all illegal structures are removed, warning that any further violation of building codes and regulations would be met with stiff penalties, including possible criminal charges, while the demolition process was done with utmost care to avoid affecting any other neighbouring buildings.
Reacting to the exercise, the Chairman of ANSPPB, Barrister Chike Maduekwe explained that the Committee set up on government land recovery by the Governor was mandated to recover and restore the original master plan of the area by demolishing all the illegal structures built by land grabbers within the area.
Barrister Maduekwe said that it is not the intention of government to punish people but insisted on carrying out the instructions of the Governor for the good of the people and added that the government will not pay compensation to any of the owners and that those whose structures were removed, will bear the cost of the exercise.
He urged the public to ensure that they comply with building codes and regulations to avoid being on the wrong side of the law.
Several residents of the area who spoke on the condition of anonymity applauded the move, saying that it was long overdue.
They said that it is a good thing that the government is finally taking action against illegal structures, pointing out that they make the environment look untidy, and pose a danger to everyone around.
Comments are closed for this post.