UCDA demolishes shanties in Umuahia, citing them as criminal hideouts

The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has demolished unapproved shops, shanties, and other makeshift structures in Isiama Afaraukwu, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

UCDA General Manager Kingsley Agomoh said that some of the demolished buildings were allegedly used as hideouts by criminals and drug peddlers, prompting the state government to take action.

Agomoh added that the owners of the structures had been properly served notices by the Abia State Government on 17 March and 17 April 2026 before bulldozers were deployed on Tuesday.

The General Manager noted that the demolition was carried out in accordance with the UCDA’s mandate and the provisions of the Abia State Urban and Regional Planning Board and Town Planning Authorities Law, Cap 40, Volume 2, Laws of Abia State 2005, as amended.

Agomoh said the demolition exercise would not be limited to Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku but would extend across the state capital, stating that the State Government was determined to remove defacing structures from the city.

He dismissed claims that people’s property was destroyed without notice and urged other owners of shanties to voluntarily remove them.

Meanwhile, Abia State Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu has denied reports that he was involved in the demolition of Afara residents’ property.

Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary Cyril Eke Mba, Emetu said the allegations were falsehoods designed to create tension among the public.