Anambra Government Vows to Intensify Clampdown on Illegal Structures, Land Grabbers

By Praise Chinecherem

The Anambra State government on Tuesday vows to continue clampdown on land grabbers and demolition of illegal structures across the state.

The Chairman, Physical Planning Board, Barr Chike Maduekwe made the declaration while supervising the demonstration of illegal structures built on hectares of land allocated for Oba International Airport but later handed over to a developer for a housing estate.

Recall that a former Anambra Governor, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju had during his term mapped out the land for the airport, but was later approved for housing estate following relocation of the airport project to Umueri by immediate past Governor Willie Obiano.

Certain land grabbers were however said to have forcefully taken over the lands which they sold to those who erected structures on it, threatening the certified estate developer. 

Speaking to reporters at the site, Mr Maduekwe, described the gang activities as holiganism and lawlessness. He reiterated government’s determination to build a livable and prosperous Anambra, vowing that every land allocated for the housing estate would be fully secured. 

Acknowledging the difficulty in carrying out the demolitions, Maduekwe however said people of the state would be grateful to the government at the end of the process.

He said, “A gang of youths have parcelled land which was given to a developer by government for a housing estate.

“Apart from huge amount of money the developer paid to government, the community demanded for money and were paid. Yet, some of the land grabbers are demanding over N30m worth of goats before the developer can continue.

“We’re here to ensure the work isn’t stopped by those who call themselves commanders. We’ll be here tomorrow with a team from the ministry of works to ensure the needful is done.

“Though it’s tough to carry out demolition, but those who love omlet can’t eat it without bringing out the eag. The people of the state will thank the governor by the time they see the results of what he’s doing. 

“Currently, some responsible citizens are already taking it up themselves to demolition their own properties affected.”