The Ekiti State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development is set to begin ‘Operation Show Your Building Plan, Crackdown On Illegal Structures’ soon to curb the proliferation of illegal constructions within the Ado Ekiti metropolis just as three illegal structures has been sealed in the State Capital.
Citing the 2011 building code law of Ekiti State, Town Planner Karounwi Oladapo, the Honourable Commissioner in the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, expressed the readiness of his Ministry to introduce stringent measures with a view to revealed the rationale behind the enforcement in an exclusive report published by JirolTV.
He emphasized that the sealing exercise aims to counter the indiscriminate erection of structures in the state that disregard the regional and urban planning law enacted in 2011.
Speaking further, he stated that the Operation which will soon start will ensure the impartial enforcement of the law without exceptions, and reflecting the commitment of the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, to safeguarding the lives and properties of the people.
Karounwi warned that henceforth, individuals violating the law by constructing without approved plans will face legal consequences, as the ministry is resolute in ensuring compliance.
Highlighting the ministry’s efforts to engage non-compliant property owners, Karounwi mentioned that the sealed properties had previously received notices to visit the ministry, update their documents, and rectify irregularities. However, they chose to disregard the government’s invitation.
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Karounwi however assured the public that the Oyebanji-led administration is dedicated to protecting the well-being of residents, urging citizens to reciprocate this commitment by adhering to the law. He referenced a recent incident in Ijero Ekiti, where an event center collapse resulted in injuries, as a stark reminder of the importance of compliance.
The commissioner also addressed reports of harassment of ministry officers by residents, warning that such actions would be met with appropriate legal consequences, as it constitutes an offense against the Ekiti State government.
Karounwi further revealed that the ministry is set to launch “Operation Show Your Building Plan” and embark on an awareness campaign across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). This initiative aims to engage stakeholders, discuss regularization processes, and ensure compliance with building regulations.
He underscored that this operation is not an act of witch-hunting but a proactive endeavor aimed at safeguarding the lives and properties of Ekiti State residents.
Some of the premises sealed include Gas sections of AA RANO Petrol Station and NNPC and the Perfect Treat Eatery building which also housed the Adron Homes along Adebayo road Ado Ekiti.