Abia State revokes Trademore Estate building permit

The Abia State Government has revoked the building permit for Trademore Estate in Ubani, Umuahia, following an investigation into development violations. An inspection by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) was prompted by resident complaints regarding flooding and defective structures.

Findings revealed that the estate was constructed on swampy land originally reserved for agricultural use. Additionally, while the developer only obtained permits for two specific bungalow structures, an entire estate was subsequently built. The government also noted the absence of critical documentation, such as survey plans, environmental impact analysis reports, and evidence of administrative fee payments.

In response to broader environmental concerns, Governor Alex Otti has established an inter-ministerial committee to address perennial flooding in the Ogurube and Ehimiri layouts of Umuahia. The committee, comprising the UCDA and the Ministries of Works, Environment, and Lands, has two weeks to submit a report on lasting solutions. The state is also conducting erosion control and drainage works in Atta Emede Ibeku and assessing housing estates in Aba and Umuahia.