By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Ebonyi State Government has demolished unauthorised structures located along the Abakaliki–Afikpo Highway at the Integrated Building Materials Market, Abakaliki.

Speaking on behalf of the government, the Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Professor Nwogo Ajuka Obasi, said the government had repeatedly directed owners of the illegal structures to remove them but they failed to comply with the directive.

Professor Obasi stressed that no individual, regardless of status, is above the law, adding that the government would not tolerate actions that undermine its authority or disrupt urban planning.

He expressed concern that some individuals who are expected to obey the law have chosen instead to act contrary to government directives, assuming that political influence could shield them from consequences. He warned that such defaulters would face the full weight of the law.

The Commissioner emphasised that all markets across the state must adhere strictly to their approved layouts or risk demolition and other sanctions.

Briefing journalists after the exercise, Prof. Obasi explained that his ministry, in collaboration with the Ebonyi State Market Board chaired by Rt. Hon. Ikechukwu Nwankwo, had earlier issued a several notices to owners of unapproved structures at all markets in Ebonyi State including the Integrated Building Materials Market Abakaliki, to dismantle them voluntarily. He noted that security agencies had been informed in advance, making it clear that the enforcement will continue until the traders comply with government directives to achieve organised modern markets in the state.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Capital City Development, Hon. Sunday Inyima, criticised the traders for erecting unapproved buildings and advised them to always seek approval from relevant authorities before undertaking any form of construction within the state capital.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining order, safety, and environmental standards across all markets and commercial areas in Ebonyi State.

Those that added their voices during the exercise include the Chairman and members of Ebonyi State Market Development Board, Rt Hon Ikechukwu Nwankwo, Solomon Nwafor, Chinedu Nwoye, Friday Nwakpa, Daniel Okwuegbu, Barr. Chima, and Mr Odo Gabriel Oyibe, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Market Development and Parks.