By Ibrahim Danladi
The Ekiti State Government has issued a stern warning to its residents against haphazardly erecting buildings and structures without the requisite government approval. Hon. Karounwi Oladapo, the State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, conveyed this message on Tuesday, as his ministry took decisive action by sealing several buildings and structures in Ado-Ekiti that were constructed in violation of safety and structural integrity regulations.
Among the structures that faced enforcement measures were gas plants affiliated with two prominent filling stations, namely AA Rano in the Adebayo area and NNPC along Iworoko road. Additionally, a two-story building housing a popular eatery in the Adebayo area was also sealed.
Hon. Oladapo emphasized that the government would no longer tolerate any construction carried out without the necessary building permits, asserting that owners and developers of such structures would face legal consequences for disregarding government directives.
He expressed his dismay at the actions of owners of illegal structures who have, in the past, harassed government officials. He vowed that such individuals would now be dealt with according to the full extent of the law.
The Commissioner urged all property owners lacking government approval to promptly rectify their situation by seeking the required approvals. He warned that the ministry was prepared to take stern measures against defaulters.
Furthermore, the government plans to launch “operation show your building plan” and conduct awareness campaigns in all local government areas. During these initiatives, ministry officials will engage with stakeholders, and buildings without approved plans will be subject to regularization in accordance with the law.
Hon. Karounwi stressed that any construction in the state must first receive government approval. He clarified that this exercise is not only about individuals but is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the people. The government is determined to act preemptively and not wait for disasters to occur before taking necessary actions.
Regarding flooding concerns, the Commissioner reaffirmed Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to preventing structures that impede the free flow of water, which can lead to avoidable flooding incidents.
In his words: “We want to send the right signal to Ekiti people that never again would anybody, no matter how highly placed, put anything on the ground without seeking to obtain the development plan, without having an approved building plan. Anybody who does that becomes a criminal because you do that in contravention of the law, and the ministry will not hesitate to take such individual to court.”