In a decisive move to uphold the rule of law and restore order, the Plateau State Government has taken action against owners of illegal structures in Jos, the state capital.
The targeted structures were found to have been erected on government property and other unauthorized locations without the necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.
During a coordinated operation, 17 individuals were apprehended at a construction site situated at the old Legislative Quarters along Bauchi Ring Road in Jos. The operation was conducted by taskforce officials, led by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Joshua Ubandoma, Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, and General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board, Hart Bankat.
Speaking to reporters, Commissioner Ubandoma emphasized that the clampdown was part of the ministries’ and agencies’ routine surveillance efforts aimed at restoring order in the state capital and areas covered by the Jos master plan.
“We have issued warnings to individuals in possession of government properties to vacate them. Likewise, we have cautioned those erecting illegal structures to cease their activities as we are committed to ensuring orderliness in the state,” stated Ubandoma.
He reiterated the necessity for obtaining proper approvals and titles from the Ministry of Lands and Survey before commencing any building project, emphasizing that adherence to these regulations is paramount. “No one is exempt from the law. Those who choose to flout regulations will face the consequences,” he added.
Commissioner Ashoms echoed similar sentiments, affirming the government’s commitment to upholding law and order. “We are not targeting specific individuals; rather, we are enforcing compliance with the laws of the land. Every property owner in Plateau State must adhere to the established regulations,” he asserted.
The crackdown on illegal structures underscores the government’s dedication to maintaining order and safeguarding public property for the collective benefit of all residents of Plateau State.