By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Anambra State Government has intensified its enforcement against unsafe building construction, as the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, inspected the ongoing demolition of a distressed three storey building at Uruezealo Village, Ogidi, in Idemili North Local Government Area(LGA).
Ojukwu, who visited the site on Nov. 3, alongside members of his monitoring team, said the building was declared unsafe following the discovery of serious structural defects that posed a threat to neighbouring properties and residents.
According to the commissioner, the structure was being erected on a demarcation wall between two properties without the necessary structural and technical drawings, explaining that the construction had resulted in visible cracks on adjoining buildings, raising concerns about public safety.
He disclosed that the ministry had directed the property owner to demolish the structure within one week, warning that failure to comply would compel the government to carry out the demolition and recover the cost from the developer.
Ojukwu said the inspection was necessary to verify the owner’s compliance after the ministry was informed that demolition had commenced, adding that the monitoring team would return within the week to assess progress.
The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s zero tolerance stance on illegal and structurally compromised buildings, stressing that enforcement would apply irrespective of the developer’s status or profession.
He warned developers against disregarding building regulations, noting that the government would not compromise public safety for individual interests.
A resident of the neighbourhood, Mr. Mmaduabuchi Okaro, recounted how the construction had affected his family’s bungalow, resulting in cracks on the walls, ceiling and foundation.
He said the damage had forced his family to seek alternative accommodation out of fear for their safety. According to him, repeated complaints to the developer did not yield any meaningful response.
Okaro commended the state government for its intervention but appealed to the developer to compensate his family for the damage and support the reconstruction of their home.
The intervention underscores the importance of strict compliance with building regulations and the need to prioritise human lives and public safety over construction interests.
Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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