The Delta State Government has began the demolition of illegal structures built on lands belonging to Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai-Asaba.
The Chairman, State Taskforce on Recovery of Government Lands, Hon. Chief Frank Omare revealed this at a press briefing held in government house Asaba, Delta State, stressed that the demolition of the properties followed the expiration of three months notice issued to the illegal property owners to vacate the government land has elapsed.
While addressing journalists, Chief Omare who was flanked by members of the taskforce, said they were mandated by the State Government to recover all government lands illegally occupied by individuals and corporate bodies across the state.
He said that the University land that is meant for the Faculty of Agriculture of the Dennis Osadebay University, more than 1000 persons have encroached the land, built illegal structures amidst all manner of illegal approvals.
Omare stated “We gave them notice to vacate the land since three months ago. We were patience enough to go round informing them so that they will not say they were not given enough notice”.
“So whatever we do is a determination of Government of Delta State to bring about rule of law and to respect the laws of the land, because we cannot allow land grabbers to begin to sell all kind of lands”.
This is just a starting point because ‘the falling away of the yellow leaves is a warning to the green ones,Omare stated.
According to Chief Frank Omare,at the Federal College of Education Technical Asaba, those who have built there illegally, we are coming for them and opposite Ughelli Township Stadium,we are also coming for them, Warri, Sapele, Agbor and Patani are also involved so if you know you have built on government lands, please begin to pack out.
He however maintained that nobody can blackmail Government with non issuance of notice, pointing that the Government gave them adequate information where town hall meetings were held with them.
Frank Omare further noted that the Government have been able to a get a few illegal approvals given out by Government officials on Government lands which is satanic because one cannot get a building approval on a land belonging to Government,this is about the law and we must protect the law,said Omare
Also Omare used the opportunity to caution land grabbers across the state to desist from Government lands, adding that the task is enormous, they are determined, they are to stay away from all temptations, blackmail and intimidation.
Chief Frank Omare said that many threat text messages have been sent to him and his team but they are not worried because they are not doing it for selfish benefit.
He alleged that some Government functionaries are aiding and abating these land grabbers.
“Nobody is victimizing anybody,we are only doing the right thing. So when you want to buy any portion of land please ask questions.
On complains by students living on the demolished properties, Chief Omare said their supposed landlords ought to have informed them, adding that some rogue landlords collected a year rent from some of the students but the University authority have provided alternative arrangements for the students who were Victims.
