DSCTDA Clears Illegal Market Structures In Asaba, Inspects Roads Ahead Of Governor’s Visit
DSCTDA Removes Illegal Structures in Asaba
THE Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has stepped up its enforcement activities with the demolition of illegal structures erected along key road corridors around the busy Ogbogonogo Market axis in Asaba.
Officials of the agency dismantled several unauthorised stalls, extensions and makeshift structures occupying pedestrian walkways and road setbacks along the market corridor, including parts of Amaechi Agusi Street and Falcon Club Road.
The operation was led by the agency’s Head of Environment, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, who said the exercise followed weeks of sensitisation and the issuance of abatement notices to traders and property owners who failed to comply with environmental and urban planning regulations.
According to him, the enforcement action was necessary to restore order and ensure that the commercial district operates within the framework of the city’s planning guidelines.
Enforcement After Repeated Warnings
Speaking during the operation, Nwosu explained that the agency had earlier engaged stakeholders and issued warnings before moving in to remove the illegal structures.
He noted that many traders ignored the directives and continued to erect stalls on road setbacks, thereby obstructing free movement of pedestrians and motorists.
“Our goal is to restore sanity, ensure the free flow of traffic and maintain the aesthetic standard expected of a state capital,” Nwosu said.
He emphasised that structures erected on designated road setbacks pose serious environmental and safety risks, including increased traffic congestion, poor sanitation and the gradual distortion of the city’s master plan.
The agency, he added, would continue to enforce compliance with planning regulations to prevent further encroachment on public spaces.
DG Inspects Roads Ahead of Governor’s Visit
Meanwhile, the Director General of the DSCTDA, Mr. Patrick Ukah, conducted an inspection tour of the affected areas and adjoining roads to evaluate the progress of ongoing clearance operations.
Ukah also assessed the condition of the surrounding road network in preparation for an expected inspection by the Delta State Governor.
During the visit, the agency boss expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended the enforcement team for ensuring that the operation was carried out effectively.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to maintaining environmental standards across the capital territory.
Warning Against Re-Encroachment
Ukah warned traders and property owners against attempting to rebuild the demolished structures, stressing that such actions would attract stricter sanctions from the agency.
He explained that maintaining order in the state capital requires sustained monitoring and enforcement of existing planning laws.
The agency, he said, would intensify surveillance in the area to ensure that public walkways and road corridors remain free of obstruction.
Residents Welcome Clearance
Many residents and motorists who spoke after the exercise welcomed the intervention, saying the presence of roadside stalls and extensions had long contributed to congestion and reduced visibility for drivers.
They noted that the removal of the structures would help improve sanitation and restore easier movement within the Ogbogonogo Market area.
The DSCTDA reiterated that similar enforcement actions would continue across other parts of the capital territory to ensure compliance with environmental standards and to preserve the urban outlook of Asaba.
