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.