“Any Building Started Without Approval Will Be Demolished” – Anambra Government Warns

In a decisive move to address the increasing number of building collapses in Anambra State, the government has announced that structures erected without proper approvals will be demolished. This comes as part of intensified efforts to enforce building regulations and ensure public safety across the state.

The Chairman and Managing Director of the Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ASPPB), Chike Maduekwe, issued this warning during an inspection tour of Abatete, Uke, and Umuoji communities in the Idemili North Local Government Area on Monday.

Maduekwe condemned the activities of uncertified developers and quack builders, linking them to the recent surge in building collapses that have claimed over 25 lives and left many injured in the past seven months. The majority of these incidents, he noted, stem from poor construction practices by unqualified individuals.

During the inspection, Maduekwe also cautioned those impersonating members of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and extorting money from owners of illegal structures marked for demolition. He urged these individuals to cease their fraudulent activities immediately.

“Operation Show Your Building Permit,” a new initiative aimed at sanitizing the building sector, was announced by the ASPPB chairman. He emphasized that developers have until October 31st to obtain or regularize their building permits without facing penalties. After this grace period, any structure lacking proper approval will be demolished, and the owners will be prosecuted.

Maduekwe reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards unauthorized construction, stating, “We will no longer tolerate impunity. Any building started without approval will be razed. The government is committed to ensuring the welfare of the people, and developers must now operate strictly according to the law.”

He also highlighted the challenges faced by government officials, including harassment and threats from developers when enforcing building regulations. Despite these obstacles, Maduekwe assured that the government remains resolute in its mission to enforce the law and protect public safety.

The crackdown is part of a broader effort to restore order in the state’s construction sector, with all existing building permits currently under review for revalidation. The government has made it clear that any construction commenced without the necessary permits will not be tolerated, and violators will face the full wrath of the law.