Nnewi Demolition: Anambra Govt Intensifies Crackdown On Illegal Structures

The Anambra State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal development in Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, following the demolition of an unauthorised three-storey building under construction and several shanties as part of its renewed enforcement of physical planning regulations.

The demolition exercise, started on September 1, 2026, was led by the Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chijioke Oseloka Ojukwu, Esq., as part of the ministry’s “Operation Zero Shanties” and “Operation Show Your Permit” initiatives.

The exercise began at Akabukwu, Uruagu, where the three-storey building under construction was pulled down over alleged violations of planning regulations.

Meanwhile, the operation was later extended to areas including Nkwo to Nkwo, Umudim, Okpunoeze Junction and the St. Mary’s Catholic Church axis, where several shanties and other unauthorised structures were removed.

Speaking with New Telegrah during the exercise at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ojukwu said the action was part of the ministry’s sustained efforts to ensure compliance with approved building plans and physical planning regulations across the State.

He also said that the government would no longer tolerate impunity in the building sector, stressing that every development in the state must comply with the law and obtain the necessary planning approvals before construction begins.

Ojukwu also dismissed claims that Nnewi was being singled out for demolition, saying similar enforcement exercises had been carried out in Onitsha, Nkpor, Nkwelle Ezunaka and Ogbunike, with other cities scheduled for further action.

He warned developers, property owners and business operators against constructing buildings or carrying out commercial activities in structures without the required approvals.

He added that affected property owners had been given adequate notice ahead of the exercise.

The commissioner also advised traders affected by the removal of shanties to make use of other markets within the city, saying the exercise was being carried out in the general interest of the public.

Residents, including Chief Jerry Okeke, Ephraim Nwaka and Paul Mokwe, welcomed the urban renewal effort but appealed for adequate notice and the provision of alternative trading locations for displaced businesses as the government continues its drive to make Nnewi safer, cleaner and more orderly.