Edo State Demolishes 500 Illegal Structures in Benin City

The Edo State Development and Build Control Agency has demolished 500 illegal structures in the Ugbor and Etet areas of Benin City as part of efforts to regulate physical development across the state. This enforcement action is aligned with the state government's agenda for sustainable infrastructure development.

Darlington Igabali, the General Manager of the agency, noted that upon assuming office, he encountered significant challenges, including low public trust and poor compliance levels, with fewer than 100 registered building plans monthly despite 500 ongoing constructions. However, reforms introduced have led to a 200% increase in registered building plans monthly, driven by renewed public confidence.

The agency aims to reach 500 to 1,000 approved plans monthly. The recent demolition affected approximately 2,000 residents, including makeshift buildings and structures like churches and factories.

The agency remains committed to enforcing regulations despite community resistance and political interference, as established by a 2022 state law governing building approvals and monitoring construction activities.