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By Chukwuka Ugokwe
As part of the Anambra State Government's ongoing urban regeneration programme, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has issued demolition notices to more than 500 owners of illegally erected structures across Nnewi Metropolis.
The affected structures include shanties built beneath high-tension electricity lines, buildings constructed without approved setbacks, unapproved developments, filling stations, hotels, and other dilapidated or structurally unsafe buildings.
The enforcement exercise was led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, who inspected several locations including Onitsha Road, Anaedo Hall Road, Hundred Foot Road, Ezenwegwu Road, the Post Office area, Nkwo axis, and other parts of the metropolis.
Speaking during the exercise, Barr. Ojukwu expressed concern over the growing trend of property development without the requisite government approvals, stressing that such violations of physical planning regulations would no longer be tolerated.
He announced a two-week ultimatum for owners of the affected structures to comply with the notice, explaining that the action was in line with the directive of the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and intended to formally notify property owners ahead of the planned demolition exercise.
According to the Commissioner, demolition activities are expected to commence within two to three weeks, beginning with the Nnewi Triangle area, where the state government plans to complete the long-abandoned Nnewi Mall project.
He further disclosed that Gov. Soludo's broader development agenda for Nnewi includes the establishment of a central bus terminal and a recreational centre as part of a comprehensive master plan aimed at transforming the commercial city. "We have commenced the issuance of notices, and upon the expiration of the stipulated period, all affected structures will be removed."
Barr. Ojukwu acknowledged that urban renewal initiatives often come with temporary inconveniences but maintained that the exercise was ultimately in the overall interest of the public.
"This urban regeneration programme may involve some level of discomfort, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary challenges. It is no longer business as usual. Anambra State has adequate laws governing physical planning, and everyone must henceforth comply with the provisions of the law," he warned.
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