Ebonyi Govt issues 30-day ultimatum to occupants of defective building

The Ebonyi State government has given a 30-day deadline to those living in a building at No.10 Aguluezechukwu Street, Abakaliki, due to safety concerns about its structural integrity. This stern warning came from the Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning after an on-site assessment by officials including Richard Ugo Idike, the commissioner, and Esther Nwite, head of the Town Planning Department.

During the inspection, on Wednesday, Idike raised serious concerns about the building's visible defects and poor construction quality, warning it could jeopardize lives and property. He emphasized that no structural compromise would be tolerated, stressing the importance of adhering to approved building codes and standards for all structures in the state. The 30-day notice was intended to allow property owners ample time to address any necessary repairs without endangering residents or collapsing structures.

Idike cautioned that the deadline was crucial in preventing a potential building collapse and urged occupants to vacate the premises by the deadline. The ministry will ramp up its monitoring and enforcement efforts across Abakaliki to identify unsafe structures and ensure compliance with regulations. The taskforce's mission is part of the state government's broader urban renewal and public safety initiatives under Governor Francis Nwifuru's leadership.

The taskforce also advised property owners, developers, and builders to secure the required approvals, employ qualified professionals, and utilize standard construction materials to mitigate the risk of structural failures. Residents of the affected building are expected to comply with the directive within the given timeframe.