Otu Fires State Development Control Task Force Over Demolition of Private Property

Otu Fires State Development Control Task Force Over Demolition of Private Property

…Orders Suspension of Further Demolition, Compensation for Affected Property Owner

By Goodness Ekpang

Calabar (Core Reporters) Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered the immediate dissolution of the State Planning and Development Control Task Force following the demolition of a nearly completed private property by its personnel.

The Governor also directed the immediate suspension of further demolition activities on the affected property and ordered the payment of compensation to the owner for damages caused by the demolition.

The Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Linus Obogo, disclosed this in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

Governor Otu described the demolition as an outrageous abuse of power and an indefensible assault on the rights of a citizen, condemning what he called the high-handedness, impunity and administrative recklessness of the task force.

He stressed that alleged violations of physical planning regulations could not justify lawlessness or give any public institution the authority to trample on the rights and dignity of citizens.

According to the statement, the Governor held the entire State Planning and Development Control Task Force accountable for what he described as a gross failure in the discharge of its responsibilities.

Otu further warned that no individual or institution, irrespective of position or authority, would be permitted to exercise public power recklessly, vindictively or outside the boundaries of established law and due process.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting citizens and residents, insisting that public office was a solemn trust rather than an instrument of intimidation or oppression.

The Governor also assured that his administration would neither shield, excuse nor reward official misconduct under any guise.

He directed all government agencies to operate with discipline, restraint, professionalism and utmost respect for the rights of the people.

The Governor maintained that accountability, justice and respect for the rule of law would remain non-negotiable principles of his administration.