Anambra Government Steps Up Urban Regeneration, Demolishes Illegal Structures, Shanties In Nnewi

By Emmanuel Okonkwo

The Anambra State Government’s “Operation Zero Shanties” is gaining momentum, with more illegal structures and shanties in Nnewi and its environs demolished and cleared by the state government through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

The exercise follows a directive from Governor Chukwuma Soludo as part of efforts to actualise his urban regeneration agenda.

Led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barrister Chijioke Ojukwu, the Ministry’s team began the exercise with the demolition of an illegally built three-storey structure at Akaboukwu, Nnewi, before proceeding to Umudim, Okpunoeze Junction, and Uruagu, where other illegal buildings and shanties were cleared.

Speaking during the exercise, Commissioner Ojukwu said it forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to restoring order, ensuring compliance with physical planning regulations, and creating safer, cleaner, and more sustainable communities across Anambra State.

He explained that owners of the demolished structures had been duly notified about three months prior, stressing that the exercise does not target particular individuals or towns but is aimed at restoring Anambra to its original urban plan. He warned those still trading in shanties or constructing illegal structures to desist, noting that it is no longer business as usual.

Some residents of the affected areas, including Chief Jerry Okeke, Mr. Ephraim Nwaka, and Mr. Paul Mokwe, commended the Soludo administration for its commitment to the development of the state, but appealed to the government to properly inform affected persons ahead of such exercises to enable them evacuate their goods on time.

The residents also called for alternative trading locations to be provided for those affected, saying such measures would cushion the impact on the people, especially amid the prevailing economic challenges in the country.