ODAHIEKWU OGUNDE, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Government has said that its urban renewal project is being sabotaged by some individuals who have started reconstructing illegal structures pulled down for contravening regulations.
Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Orientation, Mr Ayibaina Duba, said in a statement on Saturday that the action constituted an offence.
He said that from Monday, August 9, 2021, the Urban Renewal Task Force would embark on enforcement which might lead to seizure of wares, demolition of such properties, arrest and prosecution of offenders, among others.
He warned property owners and traders who are testing the will of the state government to desist in their own interest.
The statement said: “For avoidance of doubt, members of the public are to note that the administration is determined to pursue the Urban Renewal Project to logical conclusion.
“Bayelsans deserve a smart capital city, please.”
Recall that about five months ago, the state government began the demolition of illegal market structures, shops and stalls on the streets and along the roads.
But since the government relaxed the exercise for sometime, some property owners have started reconstructing the structures.