The Ebonyi State Government has issued a 30 day ultimatum to occupants of a structurally defective building at No. 10 Aguluezechukwu Street, Abakaliki, directing them to vacate the premises over concerns about the safety of the structure.
The directive was issued through the State Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning following an on site inspection led by the Commissioner, Richard Ugo Idike, alongside the Head of the Town Planning Department, Esther Nwite, other town planners and members of the ministry’s enforcement taskforce.
During the inspection, Idike expressed concern over visible structural defects and what he described as substandard construction, warning that the building posed a serious threat to human lives and property.
The commissioner stressed that the state government would not compromise on residents’ safety, adding that the ministry remained committed to ensuring that buildings across the state complied with approved construction standards and regulations.
He explained that the 30-day notice would allow the property owner time to carry out the necessary structural repairs while giving occupants sufficient opportunity to secure alternative accommodation.
Idike further warned that occupants must vacate the building before the expiration of the deadline to prevent possible loss of lives in the event of a structural failure.
The commissioner also disclosed that the ministry would intensify inspections and enforcement activities across Abakaliki to identify unsafe buildings and ensure compliance with building regulations.
The exercise forms part of the Ebonyi State Government’s urban renewal and public safety efforts under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s administration.
The ministry’s taskforce also urged property owners, developers and builders to obtain approved building plans, engage qualified professionals and use quality construction materials to prevent building collapses.
Occupants of the affected property are expected to comply with the evacuation directive within the stipulated 30-day period.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
