State Govt Marks Commissioner’s Houses For Demolition
365NEWS reports that the Delta State Government has condemned one of its commissioners, Hon. Victor Egbo, for building on waterways and has marked three of his houses for demolition.
Egbo, who represents the Isoko ethnic group at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), was singled out by Chief Frank Omare, the Director of Special Duties to the State Government and Chairman of the Task Force on the Removal of Illegal Structures and Recovery of Government Lands.
Omare revealed that the properties are illegal structures obstructing water flow and must be removed.
This announcement was made during the launch of a canal clearing exercise in Ughelli, which aims to prevent flooding by clearing obstructions in the water channels.
Omare emphasized that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is committed to removing any barriers to the waterways, regardless of ownership. “No one will be spared in this exercise. Egbo’s house is just one of many structures that will be demolished to restore proper water flow and prevent further property damage,” Omare stated.
He reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy for illegal structures, warning residents against attempting to bribe officials in hopes of sparing their properties.
Omare stressed that the government is resolute in its mission to protect the community from the dangers posed by blocked water channels.
The task force, equipped with swamp buggies, is prepared to remove the buildings obstructing water flow. Omare called on Ughelli residents to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the success of the operation and reduce the risk of future floods.
Omare also made it clear that the government would not negotiate with community leaders or youths attempting to obstruct the exercise. “We do not need permission to clear the waterways,” he said, warning that any efforts to halt the process would be met with strict enforcement.
Ughelli North Local Government Council Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, confirmed that the cleanup was part of his ongoing initiative to maintain a clean and safe environment. He noted that several structures, including shops built over drainage systems, had contributed to the flooding problem, and their removal was necessary to restore normalcy.
The demolition of these illegal structures is part of a broader effort to address the flood risks that have plagued the region, especially during the rainy season.
Commissioner Egbo, acknowledging the decision, expressed his support for the state’s efforts.
“I am fully aligned with the governor’s MORE Agenda,” Egbo said. Despite his personal loss, he emphasized that as a public servant, he must lead by example.He urged other property owners to cooperate with the government, highlighting that the public interest should take precedence over individual losses.
