Ogun State Government recently justified the partial demolition of DATKEM Plaza in Ijebu Ode, reportedly owned by Mrs. Olufunke Daniel, wife of former governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel. They called the plaza an “illegal structure” for allegedly violating the state’s physical planning laws.
In explaining the situation, Olayiwola Abiodun, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, highlighted that developers had seemingly overlooked multiple efforts to halt further building progress.
Moreover, despite the government’s request for a structural assessment of the plaza, it appears that the advice was not considered.
Additionally, the permanent secretary pointed out that the tower lacked the necessary stage certification. Furthermore, numerous notices, from work stoppage to outright demolition, were issued to the property owners between May and October 2022.
Regrettably, construction persisted, even after the site’s re-sealing in August 2023. This consistent defiance by the developer ultimately culminated in the controversial decision to demolish.
On the other hand, Mr. Adeyinka Kotoye, representing Mrs. Olufunke Daniel, argued that the state government, somewhat surprisingly, ignored the court papers they had received and proceeded with the demolition.
According to a report by Business Day, he further alleged the involvement of suspected political thugs, backed by the police, in the demolition act. He emphasized that despite presenting legal documents to the state authorities, the building met its demise mere days later.
Similarly, the project manager, Olusegun Lawal, contested the government’s narrative. He was adamant that the building, initiated in 2009, had received full blessings from relevant authorities. He firmly believed that there were no deviations concerning the construction of the plaza.
In the midst of these developments, Chief Segun Sowunmi, a former governorship aspirant, penned an open letter to President Bola Tinubu.
In it, he voiced concerns over what he perceived as support for Governor Dapo Abiodun’s actions, especially the demolition. He also touched upon the escalating insecurity issues in Ogun State and sought clarity on President Tinubu’s position.
Responding to the swirling allegations, a close aide to Governor Abiodun clarified that the Ministry of Urban and Physical Planning, not the governor directly, made the demolition decision. Above all, he reiterated that the government prioritizes the safety of its inhabitants.
As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that the state government is unwavering in its commitment to safeguard its citizens and will act decisively against perceived unsafe structures.
