Asagba Raises Alarm Over Unplanned Growth Of Asaba
By PAULINA NZERUBE
Asagba Laments Absence of Master Plan for Asaba
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, has expressed concern over what he described as the lack of a functional master plan guiding development in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
Speaking while receiving members of the Asaba Vision 2050 Committee at his palace, the monarch said uncontrolled property development had diminished the aesthetic appeal of the city. He observed that structures were being erected without regard for zoning regulations, resulting in incompatible land use across residential areas.
Prof. Azinge cited the widespread presence of worship centres on nearly every street as a major example, noting that while their spiritual role was important, they had also become sources of noise pollution and public nuisance in residential neighbourhoods.
He said the State Capital Territory Development Agency appeared unable to address the situation despite engagements, but expressed optimism that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to producing a master plan would help reverse the trend. According to him, the governor had already awarded a contract for the preparation of the plan.
The traditional ruler, however, questioned how effective implementation would be possible in an already congested and disorganised environment without demolitions and compensation, stressing that the master plan should have been in operation much earlier.
Commending the Asaba Vision 2050 Committee, Prof. Azinge described its task as intellectually demanding and urged members to remain strategic and diplomatic, particularly on issues requiring government intervention.
