By Bonaventure Alufo

The Anambra State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPPUD) has stepped up enforcement of physical planning regulations, demolishing structures identified by the ministry as contravening approved development requirements in Nawfia, Abagana and Onitsha.

The enforcement operation, conducted on Sept. 18, was led by TPl. Ngozi Okwudili, who represented the Commissioner, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu.

According to the ministry, the affected developments violated planning requirements in different ways, including construction without government approval, inadequate parking provision and obstruction of existing access roads.

At Nawfia, market structures were affected over alleged failure to provide the required parking spaces. The ministry said the absence of adequate parking could create access and traffic challenges as the market becomes operational.

At Oyi Agu, Abagana, the enforcement team acted against structures reportedly constructed without the required government approval.

In Onuma Street, Onitsha, and Trans-Nkisi Layout, structures were removed over alleged obstruction of existing access roads, as well as development without the necessary approval.

Reactions from residents who spoke during the exercise were largely supportive of the enforcement action, particularly where the demolitions addressed access and traffic concerns.

A Nawfia resident, who requested anonymity, welcomed the intervention, saying inadequate parking around the market could create serious obstruction and traffic problems when the facility becomes fully operational.

In Abagana, a trader identified as Desmond also commended the ministry, saying unauthorised construction had become a concern in the area, urging stronger compliance with planning requirements.

At Onuma Street, Onitsha, a resident said the reopening of a blocked access road had brought relief to landlords and tenants whose movement had been affected by the development.

However, no specific statement opposing the demolitions was provided by an identified resident in the material available for this report. The reactions should therefore not be presented as a documented split between residents who supported and opposed the exercise.

Speaking during the operation, TPl. Okwudili urged developers and members of the public to obtain the necessary planning approvals and seek professional guidance from MPPUD before commencing any development.

She advised Local Government Mayors to consult the commissioner and the ministry before approving or authorising building projects within their jurisdictions.

The ministry maintained that its enforcement actions are grounded in its statutory responsibility to regulate physical development, enforce approved planning standards and protect public infrastructure, including access roads and required spaces.

MPPUD warned developers that construction without the required approval or development that violates approved planning requirements could attract enforcement action.

The Ministry encouraged property owners, developers and other stakeholders to comply with planning regulations and obtain the necessary approvals before undertaking construction.