The Kogi state bureau of land and urban development has commenced demolition of illegal structures in Lokoja the state capital, warning residents to ensure that they seek approval from town planning authorities before embarking on any form of building construction.
The Director General of the Bureau Nasiru Ochi who gave the warning in Lokoja while supervising the demolition of illegal structures at Gadumu area in Lokoja said the structures were built on water pipes, under high tension electric wires and access roads, which contravened the state’s town planning laws.
The director general bureau of land and urban development said the rate at which illegal structures are springing up in Lokoja is a cause for concern and has to stop.
Ochi said the government has lined up programmes under its urban renewal programme to reposition the state capital for better living standard.
He warned staff of the agency against engaging in shady deals such as granting fake land titles.
The owner of one of the demolished structures. Emmanuel Ebueke said he bought the land legally and has committed more than 7.5 million naira to the structure calling on the state government to intervene in the matter.
Editor: Ena Agbanoma
