Edo demolishes illegal structures under high-tension power line after fire

The Edo State Government on Tuesday executed a forceful demolition of illegal structures and caravans situated directly beneath a 132kV high-tension power line in Egor Market, Benin City. This action was prompted by a recent fire incident that affected the overhead line.

As bulldozers moved in, market stall owners and onlookers scrambled to salvage their belongings. The demolition sparked emotional scenes, with some traders lamenting insufficient time to evacuate their goods and property. However, others commended the government's decisive action.

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We are executing the directive for the immediate evacuation of all illegal structures and activities along the power line right-of-way.

Mr. Darlington Igabali, the Managing Director of the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency, asserted that traders had received ample prior notification. "We are executing the directive for the immediate evacuation of all illegal structures and activities along the power line right-of-way," Igabali stated. He added that many traders had already removed significant portions of their structures before officials arrived, facilitating the process.

Igabali emphasized that the demolished stalls belonged to traders who had ignored previous directives. He assured that no goods were destroyed, as affected individuals were given sufficient time to remove their property. Ms. Lisa Iredia, an affected trader, confirmed receiving a seven-day notice, with most traders complying. Mrs. Grace Odion, another trader, supported the demolition, deeming it a necessary measure for public safety.

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We gave them time to remove all that belonged to them. We made it humanly possible for them to do so before the demolition.