The Abia State government has announced plans to commence the demolition of unapproved structures and shanties erected in front of buildings in various areas of Umuahia, the state capital. The affected areas include Isi Gate, Uzuakoli Road, Corporative, and Aba Road.
The decision was made public during a meeting held in Umuahia by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) with landlords, particularly those conducting business in the specified areas.
During the meeting, Kingsley Agomuo, the General Manager of UCDA, emphasized the need for the prompt removal of the illegal structures and shanties, reiterating the deadline set by the state government for December 1. He stressed that the costs associated with demolishing the structures would be the responsibility of the building owners.
Agomuo urged landlords and occupants of the illegal structures to take proactive measures to avoid incurring expenses from the government-led demolition. He also cautioned that failure to comply with the directive would result in sanctions being imposed on the non-compliant landlords.
Highlighting the rationale behind the impending action, the UCDA underlined the importance of restoring order and compliance with building regulations in Umuahia.
In addition to the demolition notice, traders at Isi Gate were advised to vacate their current trading spaces. The UCDA and the Abia State Ministry of Trade, Commerce, and Investment emphasized that the market had been relocated and was no longer recognized by the state government.
