No Approval, No Construction: Physical Planning Board Warns Developers in Trans Nkisi, Borehole Layouts

 

Anambra State Vows to Demolish Unauthorized Buildings in Onitsha as Board Sounds Alarm

ONITSHA — The Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ANSPPB) has issued a stern warning to property developers, cautioning them against the rising trend of erecting structures — including perimeter fences — without securing the necessary approvals. This clampdown is specifically directed at unapproved developments springing up in the Trans Nkisi and Borehole Layouts of Onitsha, one of the state’s bustling urban zones.

In a press statement made available to journalists and signed by the Managing Director of the Board, Barrister Chike Mmaduekwe, the agency expressed serious concern over what it described as “unlawful and rampant construction activities” in government-designated layouts. According to the Board, this growing disregard for proper planning procedures not only violates the Anambra State Physical Planning Board Law Number 9 of 2013, but also poses long-term threats to orderly urban development and public safety.

"The Anambra State Physical Planning Board has observed with dismay the alarming rate at which individuals and developers undertake the construction of buildings and perimeter fences in designated government layouts without first obtaining the statutory approvals required by law," the statement read in part.

Mmaduekwe emphasized that the Board is not against development or investment in the state's urban areas but insisted that such progress must be carried out within the bounds of the law. He noted that the primary purpose of the approval process is to ensure structural integrity, environmental sustainability, and adherence to the state’s urban planning framework.

Moving forward, the Board declared a zero-tolerance policy for any form of illegal development. Developers who proceed without approvals will face immediate consequences. “Any structure erected in any government layout without prior approval from the Board will be demolished without further notice,” the statement warned.

In addition to demolitions, the Board revealed that offending developers will be prosecuted in accordance with the provisions of the Physical Planning Law, signaling that the days of impunity may be drawing to an end.

This move, according to some urban planning experts, is a much-needed intervention in light of the chaotic growth observed in some parts of Onitsha. Illegal structures, they argue, often lack compliance with setback regulations, proper drainage plans, and building safety codes, thereby exacerbating flooding, congestion, and even posing a risk to life.

Residents in the affected layouts have expressed mixed reactions. While some welcomed the enforcement move as necessary to restore order and ensure safety, others called for more public sensitization before any demolitions begin. “People need to be informed early enough. It’s not just about demolition — many aren’t even aware that their fences need approval,” said a property owner who preferred to remain anonymous.

Nevertheless, the Physical Planning Board appears resolute in its mission to rein in unregulated urban sprawl. With this declaration, the state has sent a clear message to developers: obtain your building approvals or face the consequences.

Barrister Mmaduekwe concluded the release by urging the public to comply with all planning laws and to consult the Board before embarking on any form of construction, no matter how minor. “Physical planning is a collective responsibility. We all must play by the rules if we want a well-ordered, safe, and sustainable Anambra,” he stated.

As the Board ramps up monitoring and enforcement efforts, all eyes will be on Trans Nkisi and Borehole Layouts in the weeks ahead — and on how seriously developers take this renewed push for regulatory compliance.