Ebonyi Government Demolishes Unapproved Building in Abakaliki!

Sele Media Africa
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Reported by Amos Dachung – Sele Media Africa Reporter
September 9, 2025

Ebonyi Government Demolishes Unapproved Building in Abakaliki

The Ebonyi State Government has commenced the demolition of unapproved structures in Abakaliki, the state capital, as part of its urban renewal initiative aimed at transforming the city into a modern metropolis.

On Thursday, February 15, 2024, the Ministry of Capital City Development began the exercise, targeting illegal buildings and shanties along Water Works Road, Hausa Quarters, and other areas. The Commissioner for Capital City Development, Hon. Sunday Inyima, stated that the demolition is part of efforts to enforce the city’s master plan and enhance its aesthetic appeal.

“Abakaliki has grown into a metropolis like any other city, and we cannot continue to condone this,” Inyima said. “Notices had been given by successive administrations before the current administration of Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru. When we came on board, we issued notices and removal orders to all the owners of these batchers and makeshift buildings.” [1]
The Commissioner emphasized that the affected structures were built without proper approval and often encroached on service lanes and other designated areas. He noted that the government had engaged with communities, including the Hausa community, to ensure compliance and minimize resistance.

In April 2025, the state government expanded its demolition exercise, targeting over 550 unauthorized and structurally unsafe buildings across parts of Abakaliki, including the Murtala Mohammed Layout, Hausa Quarters, and the Waterworks axis. The Commissioner reiterated that several warnings were issued to occupants prior to the commencement of demolition, with initial notices served as early as November 2023. [2]

While some residents have expressed support for the government’s efforts to modernize the city, others have raised concerns about the lack of compensation and the suddenness of the demolitions. Traders and landlords along Ogoja Road and Vanco junction lamented the loss of their properties, stating that they were not given adequate notice to vacate the premises. [3]
The Ebonyi State Government maintains that the demolition of unapproved structures is essential for the proper planning and development of Abakaliki. The Commissioner for Capital City Development assured that the government is committed to enforcing regulations that will ensure the city’s growth aligns with its master plan.

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Citations:
1.⁠ ⁠Daily Post Nigeria: dailypost.ng/2024/02/16/ebonyi-govt-demolishes-illegal-structures-shanties/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2.⁠ ⁠Enn: enn.ng/2025/04/12/ebonyi-state-demolishes-over-550-structures-in-abakaliki-to-advance-urban-renewal-project/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3.⁠ ⁠Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2024/04/traders-count-losses-as-govt-demolishes-shops-houses-in-ebonyi/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Managing Director and Editor-In-Chief of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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