The Rivers State Government has cautioned residents, property developers, corporate organisations and other stakeholders against undertaking physical development projects without first obtaining the required approvals from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The government stressed that the ministry remains the only legally authorised institution responsible for regulating physical planning and urban development across the state, warning that any violation of the law would attract legal sanctions.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Amairigha Edward-Hart, issued the warning in a public notice released on Monday, urging strict compliance with existing planning regulations.
According to the commissioner, the ministry is empowered by law to implement the state’s development policies, including master plans, neighbourhood plans and other urban planning initiatives.
He explained that the ministry is solely responsible for issuing development approvals and building permits, enforcing zoning regulations, monitoring setbacks and building heights, and ensuring that construction projects comply with approved planning standards.
Edward-Hart added that the ministry also oversees the management of vacant lands and open spaces, investigates complaints relating to physical development, carries out urban renewal programmes, revalidates approved building plans and issues Temporary Use of Space Permits.
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He further noted that the ministry has the legal authority to issue compliance notices and, where necessary, demolish structures erected without approval or in violation of planning regulations.
The government maintained that no individual, organisation or group is permitted to perform any of the ministry’s statutory functions without following the established approval process.
It therefore urged all residents, investors, developers and corporate bodies to secure the necessary permits, approvals and certifications before embarking on any construction, demolition or other physical development activities within Rivers State.
Edward-Hart warned that anyone found bypassing the prescribed procedures or violating the state’s physical planning laws would face prosecution.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing planning regulations to promote orderly urban development and ensure compliance with the state’s physical planning framework.