Houses constructed by unqualified individuals, non-certified developers, or fraudulent development control agents across Anambra State face the threat of demolition due to the frequent building collapses, which are believed to result from poor construction practices by these agents.
Chike Maduekwe, the Chairman and Managing Director of the Anambra State Physical Planning Board, issued this warning on Tuesday during an inspection tour of Abatete, Uke, and Umuoji communities in the Idemili North Local Government Area.
Maduekwe also cautioned those falsely claiming to be members of the Registered Engineering Council of Nigeria, who are extorting large sums from homeowners by marking illegal structures for demolition, to cease such activities.
Reports indicate that over the past seven months, more than 20 buildings—including residential, commercial, and school structures—have collapsed in the state, resulting in over 25 deaths and many injuries.
These incidents have largely been attributed to construction by unqualified individuals, according to the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria and other certified building authorities.
During the inspection, Maduekwe noted that despite multiple warnings and notices marked “Stop Work,” developers continued their construction activities and even resorted to threatening, harassing, and assaulting the agency’s staff during inspections.
He stressed that the building sector must be regulated, requiring developers to present their building permits. A grace period from August 1 to October 31 has been provided for developers to finalize and submit their permits.
Maduekwe warned that after this grace period, any structure lacking a building permit would be demolished, and the owners would face legal action.
He stated, “Due to the persistent building collapses in the state, the Anambra State Government has launched an ‘Operation Show Your Building Permit’ initiative to clean up the sector.
The Governor has instructed us not to allow any government official to be intimidated, and we want to send a clear message to developers: the government is serious.
“People have been acting as if there are no laws in place. That era is over. We will no longer tolerate the impunity of building without consequence.
“Every unapproved building in the state has been halted, and all previously issued approvals have been recalled for revalidation due to observed lapses.
“Many individuals have disregarded the government’s authority by beginning construction without obtaining permits. Often, they bypass permits because of land disputes or lack of proper documentation.
On numerous occasions, our staff have been harassed and threatened by thugs. Just a few days ago, our team was chased away from a site during an official assignment.”
He emphasized that government regulations clearly state that no construction is allowed in the state without proper approval.
