New wave of demolition is currently going on in the industrial town of Nnewi as Anambra State Government commence another round of pulling down of shanties, unauthorised structures and illegal structures.
The latest operation, led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, was executed under the ministry’s “Operation Zero Shanties and Show Your Building Permit” initiative, which forms part of Gov. Charlse Soludo’s urban regeneration agenda.
The enforcement team began at Akabukwu, where an illegally constructed three-storey building was pulled down, before extending the exercise to Umudim, Okpunoeze Junction and Uruagu.
At St. Mary’s New Road Bus Stop, Uruagu, shanties and other illegal structures were demolished, while additional unauthorised and poorly constructed buildings along Akabukwu Road and St. Mary’s Road were cleared over concerns about their potential danger to occupants and the public.
Ojukwu warned developers, property owners and business operators that the government would no longer condone construction or commercial activities in structures without the requisite planning approvals, urging residents to secure permits before commencing any development.
According to him, owners of the affected structures had been notified about three months ahead of the exercise, adding that the enforcement was not targeted at any individual or community but was designed to restore order, safety and compliance with the state’s approved physical development plans.
Residents who spoke with our Correspondent applauded Gov Soludo’s urban renewal effort but appealed for adequate notice and alternative trading locations for displaced businesses.
