The Akwa Ibom State government has condemned the rising illegal structures in the State, warning that it would no longer give notice before demolishing such unauthorized structures.
The Commissioner for Lands and Natural Resources, Arch. Ime Ekpo stated this during a press conference on Friday in Uyo following a question on government position on the issue.
The Commissioner also warned people to avoid raising structures under high-tension cables, adding that such practice in any eventuality could lead to serious disaster.
He encouraged members of the public to get government approval before purchasing any parcel of land to avoid being swindled by fraudsters.
He said, “The State government would not give any notice to illegal properties before its demolition. The public should also desist from raising structures under high-tension cables, because such practice in any eventuality could lead to serious disaster
“We manage lands effectively for the State government, we hold the registration of lands and there is no land in the state that is not registered, and we issue certificates of occupancy to rightful land owners.
“So many unsuspecting members of the public have been swindled by fraudsters. I will encourage everyone to seek proper information from the ministry of lands and natural resources before purchasing any land.”
Ekpo said the State government had not authorized the selling of any estate and that those who are selling them have not received approval of the government.
He also debunked the allegation of property fraud under his ministry.
