Ebonyi marks dilapidated buildings for demolition to prevent disaster

A dilapidated one-story building in Abakaliki has been marked for demolition by the Ebonyi State Ministry of Capital City Development and Urban Planning due to severe safety concerns. Occupants were previously issued a 21-day notice to vacate the premises, which has now expired. The structure faces imminent demolition within the week.

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The decision followed an agreement reached between the property owner and the ministry, adding that the demolition was necessary to avert the risk of a possible collapse.

Chief Richard Ugo Idike, the Commissioner for Capital City Development and Urban Planning, stated that the decision followed an agreement with the property owner and is crucial to avert the risk of a potential collapse. He emphasized that the action prioritizes public safety, and the government will not permit avoidable tragedies stemming from unsafe structures.

During an inspection, officials observed that parts of the building had already collapsed, yet families, including children, continued to reside within the dangerous structure. A similar distressed building on Liberty Street was also inspected, found to be in a near-collapse state, and its owner received a removal notice, directing tenants to vacate within 21 days for demolition.

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Idike stressed that the action was taken in the interest of public safety, noting that the government would not allow avoidable tragedies caused by unsafe structures.

This exercise is part of ongoing efforts to enforce building regulations and ensure urban safety. Commissioner Idike urged residents to comply with directives regarding distressed buildings and advised property owners to conduct regular maintenance and structural assessments. The ministry aims to protect lives and foster a safer, more organized urban environment across Ebonyi State.

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He urged residents to comply with government directives on distressed buildings and advised property owners to carry out regular maintenance and structural assessments to prevent avoidable disasters.