From Isaac Ojo
The Anambra State Government has intensified efforts to reclaim public land, restore the state’s original master plan and enforce physical planning regulations, as it commenced the third phase of its routine operation, “Show Your Building Permit”.
Anambra State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, who led the said enforcement drive reflects Gov Charles Soludo’s commitment to building orderly, livable and economically vibrant cities through strict compliance with approved development standards.
At Plywood Market, Ogbunike, in Oyi LGA of the State, the commissioner supervised actions to reclaim government land allegedly encroached upon by developers, warned that public property would no longer be converted for private use in violation.
The enforcement team also intervened at Building Materials Market, Ogidi, in Idemili North LGA, where an illegal structure under construction had already collapsed on a major drainage channel. Ojukwu right there and then ordered termination of work on the site.
Further inspections in Ogidi uncovered additional cases of non-compliance, including structures that failed to observe approved setbacks and other physical planning requirements, prompting enforcement actions by the ministry.
At Oye Agu Market, Abagana, in Njikoka LGA, officials marked sections of shopping plazas built without adequate parking provisions and in breach of the mandatory nine-metre setback for commercial developments, a measure designed to reduce roadside parking and traffic congestion.
A similar action was carried out at Nkwo Nnewi and other parts of Nnewi, where ongoing commercial developments were found to have violated approved planning standards and road corridor requirements, attracting sanctions and possible demolition.
Barr Ojukwu reiterated that physical planning laws are binding on all residents, developers and institutions, emphasizing that the state is also enforcing the required two-metre setback from walkways and six-metre setback from drainage channels along highways across Anambra.
He maintained that the Soludo administration remains unwavering in its vision of restoring order, protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring sustainable urban development, warning that developers who disregard approved plans and building regulations risk severe sanctions, including demolition of offending structures.
The Commissioner further outlined Anambra’s planned growth framework, noting that the state’s vision of becoming an African Dubai–Taiwan Silicon Valley is achievable through collective commitment and compliance with physical planning laws.
Anambra intensifies enforcement of urban master plan
