The Ondo State Government says it has commenced state-wide sensitisation exercises to ensure public compliance with town planning laws.
The State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Sunday Olajide, said this on Tuesday in Odigbo Local Government Area while speaking with newsmen at the end of a two-day stakeholders’ engagement.
The programme was held across traditional institutions in Ondo South Senatorial District.
According to him, the exercise is aimed at correcting the widespread misconception that building construction can begin without obtaining the required approval from the ministry.
“This will endear people to support and understand the state government’s urban renewal drive.
“We need to enlighten our people and that’s why we are here to meet the traditional rulers who are leaders in their communities.
“The outreach has enlightened residents that building applications can be submitted directly to the ministry through Area Town Planning Officers in the 18 local government areas, without the use of agents or third parties.
“We embarked on the sensitisation following the increasing rate of illegal developments like construction on waterways, government setbacks and public lands, as well as the erection of sub-standard structures.
“Such violations have contributed to flooding, building collapse and land disputes in several communities, hence, the sensitisation is part of government’s strategy to curb the trend,” he said.
Olajide also said the State Executive Council (SEC) had approved the Okitipupa Development Plan Order facilitated by the Federal Government.
According to the commissioner, residents are now better informed about the benefits of obtaining proper layout plans, surveys and building permits, as well as the consequences of violating physical planning laws.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Oluwagbenga Akingbasote, said the engagement with town planners, traditional rulers, artisans, and religious leaders would promote organised and sustainable development.
Similarly, Director, Master Plan Department of the ministry, Mr Abimbola Tofowomo, said the sensitisation stressed the need for residents to patronise qualified professionals for planning and building approvals.
Tofowomo said residents were also sensitised on the need to obtain layout plans, surveys and building approvals from certified professionals before commencing construction.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Olajide led the ministry’s delegation to the palaces of notable traditional rulers in the six local governments of Ondo South Senatorial District.
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