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

‎The Ebonyi State government has issued a 30-day ultimatum to occupants of a structurally defective building located at No.10 Aguluezechukwu Street, Abakaliki, directing them to vacate the premises over concerns about its safety.

‎The directive was issued by the 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 planning officials and members of the ministry’s enforcement taskforce.

‎During the inspection on Wednesday, Idike expressed concern over visible structural defects and substandard construction, describing the building as a potential threat to human lives and property.

‎He said the state government would not compromise on public safety, stressing that all buildings across the state must comply with approved building codes and regulatory standards.

‎According to him, the 30-day notice is intended to give the property owner an opportunity to undertake necessary structural remediation while allowing occupants sufficient time to secure alternative accommodation.

‎Idike warned that the notice was necessary to prevent a possible building collapse and urged occupants to vacate the premises before the expiration of the deadline.

‎He further disclosed that the ministry would intensify monitoring and enforcement activities across Abakaliki to identify unsafe structures and ensure compliance with building regulations.

‎The commissioner said the exercise was part of the state government’s urban renewal and public safety initiatives under Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration.

‎The taskforce also urged property owners, developers and builders to obtain necessary approvals, engage qualified professionals and use standard construction materials to prevent structural failures.

‎Occupants of the affected building are expected to comply with the directive within the stipulated 30-day period.