Abia revokes estate firm’s permit over regulatory violations

The Abia State Government has announced the revocation of a building permit for Trademore Housing Estate in Umuahia following a series of regulatory violations. Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed this during a press briefing, citing findings from an inspection by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA).

The UCDA uncovered numerous infractions during their investigation, which sparked complaints from residents regarding flooding and structural defects. The developer's original permit application was for just two structures, a semi-detached two-bedroom bungalow and a three-bedroom bungalow, but the development had expanded into a full estate.

Furthermore, the application was missing crucial planning and regulatory documents, such as a survey plan, site plan, site analysis report, layout plan, environmental impact assessment report, proof of payment for administrative fees, and technical input from relevant professionals and government agencies. Governor Alex Otti has instructed the formation of an inter-ministerial committee consisting of UCDA and Ministries of Works, Environment, and Lands to address the persistent flooding issues in Umuahia's Ogurube and Ehimiri layouts.

This committee is tasked with submitting a report within two weeks. In other news, the state has received nine additional returnees from South Africa, who have been reconnected with their families. The government is also preparing to assist the evacuation and return of about 100 Abia indigenes from South Africa in the coming weeks.

Lastly, Abia State has committed N502.1 million in counterpart funding through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, ensuring vulnerable residents continue to benefit from the health insurance scheme for the vulnerable.