ACTDA Cracks Down on Illegal Developments, Seals Unauthorized Gas Plant, Demolishes Structure Under High-Tension Cables

By Our Reporter

Residents of Enugwu-Ukwu witnessed a major enforcement operation on Tuesday as the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) intensified its campaign against illegal developments, sealing an unauthorized gas plant and demolishing a structure built beneath high-tension electricity cables.

The exercise, led by ACTDA’s Commander of Enforcement, Mr. Jude Nworah, forms part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to enforce urban planning regulations, improve public safety, and ensure orderly development across the Awka Capital Territory.

Moving through residential and commercial areas, the enforcement team identified structures that violated approved planning standards and posed potential risks to lives and property.

One of the major highlights of the operation was the sealing of an illegal gas plant allegedly established without the mandatory approval from ACTDA.

According to Mr. Nworah, prior investigations by the agency revealed that the facility failed to meet statutory safety requirements and was located within a densely populated neighbourhood, exposing residents to significant danger.

“Illegal gas plants like this pose a serious threat to the community because they can cause fire outbreaks, gas explosions, and loss of lives and property,” he said.

He stressed that the operator did not obtain the necessary approval before commencing the project.

“No approval was granted for the facility, and it will remain sealed until due process is followed,” Nworah added.

The enforcement team also demolished an illegal extension erected directly beneath high-tension electricity cables, describing the structure as a serious violation of the mandatory safety setback for power transmission corridors.

Mr. Nworah explained that developments within power line corridors not only endanger occupants but also obstruct maintenance operations by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), potentially affecting electricity supply to surrounding communities.

“Buildings under high-tension lines endanger occupants, disrupt power supply, and make it difficult for EEDC to carry out maintenance. Such structures will continue to be removed because they put both residents and utility workers at risk,” he stated.

Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to safeguarding lives and public infrastructure, the enforcement commander said the operation reflects ACTDA’s determination to prevent avoidable disasters while preserving the integrity of the Awka Capital Territory Master Plan.

“Our responsibility is to ensure a safer, cleaner, and well-planned capital territory. We are committed to preventing disasters, protecting public infrastructure, and ensuring that every development complies with the approved master plan,” he said.

He further disclosed that similar enforcement exercises would continue across communities within the Awka Capital Territory, warning that individuals who disregard planning regulations would face appropriate legal sanctions.

Mr. Nworah urged property developers, business owners, and residents to always obtain the necessary approvals from ACTDA before embarking on any building project or establishing businesses, particularly facilities such as gas plants.

“Compliance with planning regulations is not optional. Illegal gas plants and structures erected under high-tension cables put the lives of everyone at risk. We urge members of the public to do the right thing by obtaining the required approvals before commencing any development.”

The enforcement exercise underscores ACTDA’s resolve to strengthen compliance with urban planning laws while promoting a safer, more organized, and sustainable capital city.