The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has demolished several unapproved shops, shanties, and makeshift structures in the Isiama Afaraukwu area of Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State as part of efforts to enforce urban planning regulations.
Speaking on the exercise, the General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, said some of the affected structures had allegedly become hideouts for criminals and drug peddlers, necessitating government intervention.
Agomoh stated that owners of the demolished structures were duly notified before the operation commenced, noting that the Abia State Government issued demolition notices on March 17 and April 17, 2026, ahead of Tuesday’s exercise.
According to him, the demolition was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Abia State Urban and Regional Planning Board and Town Planning Authorities Law, Cap 40, Volume 2, Laws of Abia State 2005, as amended.
He further explained that the operation is part of a broader initiative to restore order and improve the aesthetic outlook of the state capital, adding that similar exercises would be extended to other parts of Umuahia.
Agomoh dismissed allegations that residents were not given adequate notice before the demolition, urging owners of illegal structures and shanties across the capital city to voluntarily remove them to avoid sanctions.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, has denied reports linking him to the demolition of properties belonging to residents of Afara.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Cyril Eke Mba, Emetu described the allegations as false and misleading, insisting that they were deliberately designed to create tension and misinform members of the public.
Comments