Bassey Otu, Governor of Cross River State, has dissolved the State Planning and Development Control Task Force following the demolition of a privately owned property in Calabar, ordering compensation for the affected owner and halting further action on the site.
The governor’s intervention comes after public concern over the demolition of a building that was reportedly nearing completion. In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, Otu described the exercise as an abuse of power and said it violated the rights and dignity of a citizen.
Condemning the actions of the task force in strong terms, the governor said alleged breaches of planning regulations could not justify actions that disregard due process or citizens’ rights. He insisted that government agencies must operate within the law and remain accountable for their decisions.
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As part of the sanctions, Otu dissolved the entire task force, holding it responsible for what he described as a collective failure. He also directed that no further demolition should take place on the affected property and ordered that the owner be compensated for the damage already caused.
The decision follows reports surrounding a serviced-apartment development in Calabar whose owner had publicly sought intervention over the demolition. The property owner claimed the project was pulled down despite having obtained approvals and having submitted relevant documents to planning authorities.
According to the governor, no public institution has the right to wield authority recklessly or outside established legal procedures. He stressed that public office must never become a tool for intimidation or oppression.
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Otu further assured residents that his administration would not shield government officials found culpable of misconduct. He said accountability, professionalism and respect for the rule of law would remain central to the operations of all state agencies.
The governor’s action is likely to be welcomed by property owners and investors who have raised concerns about the impact of arbitrary enforcement measures on public trust and investment confidence. While authorities may still investigate any planning violations linked to the project, Otu maintained that enforcement must always follow lawful procedures and respect the rights of those affected.
For many residents, the development sends a clear message that government agencies are expected to balance regulatory responsibilities with fairness, transparency and respect for citizens, especially when decisions have the potential to affect livelihoods and investments.
