UCDA Refutes Claims of No Prior Notice, Affirms Legality of Isiama Afara Demolition Exercise
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UCDA Refutes Claims of No Prior Notice, Affirms Legality of Isiama Afara Demolition Exercise
The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging that property owners and occupants of shanties affected by the recent demolition exercise at Isiama Afara Ukwu Ibeku were not served prior notices before the operation.
In a statement issued by the General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, the Authority clarified that all necessary statutory procedures were duly followed before the enforcement exercise was carried out.
According to the statement, the owners of the affected shanties and makeshift structures were served with both first and second contravention notices on March 17, 2025, and April 17, 2026, respectively, giving them ample time to comply with the directives before the demolition exercise commenced.
The Authority emphasized that the operation was conducted in strict accordance with its statutory responsibilities under the Abia State Urban and Regional Planning Board and Town Planning Authorities Law, Cap 40, Volume 2, Laws of Abia State 2005, as amended.
UCDA further noted that the exercise forms part of a broader urban renewal initiative aimed at restoring order, improving environmental sanitation, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the state capital. It stressed that similar enforcement actions would be extended to other parts of Umuahia where illegal structures and unapproved developments are identified.
The statement also revealed that many of the demolished shanties had become havens for criminal activities, including drug peddling and other unlawful acts, posing serious security concerns to residents and the surrounding communities.
The Authority therefore urged residents and property owners to support the state government's urban renewal efforts by voluntarily removing illegal structures, shanties, and other developments that contravene existing planning regulations.
UCDA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a cleaner, safer, and more orderly Umuahia in line with the urban development vision of the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti.
