By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Anambra State Government has demolished illegal buildings, shops, fences and other structures erected on government land at Nkwelle Ezunaka and Trans Nkisi Phase Two Layout in Oyi and Onitsha North Local Government Areas.
The demolition exercise, led by the Head of Development Control in the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mrs. Ngozi Okwudili, was carried out on Saturday with the support of security operatives after notices served on the affected occupants expired.
Speaking during the operation, Okwudili said the affected structures were built on government land without valid allocation papers.
She explained that land grabbers had invaded the Trans Nkisi Phase Two Layout, a government-designated low-density residential area, and unlawfully displaced the original allottees by commencing construction without approval.
She expressed concern over the increasing disregard for physical planning laws and building regulations by some individuals and developers, adding that the demolition became necessary to enforce compliance and protect government property.
Okwudili reaffirmed the state government’s determination to sustain its crackdown on land grabbing and unauthorized developments, warning that no one has the right to acquire or develop land without following the approved legal procedures.
She advised prospective landowners and developers to always carry out proper verification, obtain all necessary government approvals, and ensure their documents are authentic before purchasing land or commencing construction.
Tags: Anambra, Land Grabbing, Demolition, Urban Development, Physical Planning
