Ebonyi Issues 30-Day Ultimatum For Occupants To Vacate Defective Building

The Ebonyi State Government, through the Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning, 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 due to severe structural safety concerns.

The order followed an on-site assessment led by the Commissioner for Capital City and Urban Planning, Richard Ugo Idike, alongside the Head of the Town Planning Department, Esther Nwite, state town planners, and the ministry’s enforcement taskforce.

During the inspection, Idike expressed deep concern over visible structural defects and substandard construction, describing the building as an immediate threat to life and property.

“The state government will not compromise on the safety of residents. Our ministry remains committed to ensuring that all structures across Ebonyi State strictly adhere to approved building codes and regulatory standards,” Idike stated.

He explained that the 30-day window provides the property owner time to undertake necessary structural remediation to prevent a catastrophic collapse, while giving occupants sufficient lead time to secure alternative accommodation.

“This notice is necessary to avert building failure and protect human lives. Occupants must make alternative arrangements before the expiration of the deadline to avoid tragic outcomes,” the Commissioner added.

Idike emphasised that the ministry will step up monitoring and enforcement across the capital to detect unsafe structures, warning that non-compliant properties will face swift regulatory intervention.

The exercise aligns with the urban renewal and public safety mandate of the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru to maintain an orderly and secure capital city.

The Ministry’s Taskforce Team urged property owners, developers, and builders across the state to strictly follow approved building plans, engage certified professionals, and use high-grade construction materials to prevent structural failures.

Occupants of the affected property are expected to comply fully with the vacate order within the stipulated 30-day period.