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In the realm of governance, the pursuit of order and adherence to laws are paramount. Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has made it abundantly clear that his administration is unwavering in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining the integrity of the state’s building codes. This resolute stance on lawfulness is a fundamental aspect of governance that transcends political motives and personal interests.
Upholding the Law: No Exceptions
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Governor Dapo Abiodun’s recent statement serves as a reaffirmation of the principles that underpin responsible governance. He has emphasized that the government of Ogun State does not discriminate when it comes to enforcing building codes and regulations. The law applies to every individual, regardless of their status or influence in society. This commitment to equality before the law ensures that Ogun State remains a bastion of fairness and justice.
The Role of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development
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The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development plays a pivotal role in ensuring that Ogun State’s cities and towns are well-organized and that construction adheres to established building codes. This ministry is entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the safety of the state’s residents by monitoring and regulating construction activities. It is not within their purview to unmask the ownership of companies involved in construction projects, but rather to enforce compliance with building regulations.
DATKEM Plaza: A Case of Violation
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DATKEM Plaza in Ijebu-Ode found itself at the center of a demolition controversy. The governor clarified that the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development’s actions were in response to observed contraventions of building regulations. It is crucial to understand that these contraventions were not tied to the identity of the property owner, as the ministry’s primary focus is to ensure that all buildings within the state adhere to safety standards.
A Timeline of Enforcement
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To dispel accusations of political bias, Governor Abiodun outlined a comprehensive timeline of events related to DATKEM Plaza:
- In 2009, DATKEM Plaza applied for approval to construct a five-story building, predating Governor Abiodun’s administration.
- In May 2022, a contravention notice was issued to DATKEM Plaza for violations of building regulations.
- Subsequent stop orders and violation notices were issued to halt construction until contraventions were rectified.
- The premises were eventually sealed due to continued non-compliance.
- Despite these warnings and actions, construction persisted, even under the cover of darkness.
Equal Application of the Law
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Governor Abiodun highlighted a critical point: In Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole, there is only one law, which applies uniformly to all residents, regardless of their social standing. The law does not discriminate between the common citizen and the VIP. This unwavering commitment to the rule of law underscores the governor’s dedication to maintaining order and safety within the state.
Addressing Vindictiveness
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Accusations of vindictiveness were addressed by the governor, who cited a previous intervention in a property dispute involving the alleged owner of DATKEM Plaza. When he assumed office in 2019, the said individual had a property in Abeokuta that had been sealed for eight years due to violations of building regulations. Governor Abiodun’s intervention led to the reopening of the property, which now operates as Conference Hotel in Abeokuta.
A Firm Warning
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Governor Dapo Abiodun concluded his statement with a stern warning to all residents of Ogun State. He emphasized that the government would not tolerate lawlessness or haphazard development. The message was clear: If you have built without proper approvals or in violation of building codes, the long arm of the law would soon catch up with you. The state would not be defined by disorderly construction practices, and it is incumbent upon every resident to adhere to established regulations.
In summary, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and building codes in Ogun State is unwavering. His administration’s actions are rooted in the principles of fairness, equality, and safety for all residents. The case of DATKEM Plaza serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to enforcing regulations without prejudice. In Ogun State, as in the rest of Nigeria, the law is blind to social status, and Governor Abiodun’s message is clear: Lawlessness will not be tolerated, and everyone must comply with building codes for the betterment of the state.
