UCDA demolishes shanties in Umuahia, says they were hideouts for criminals

Umuahia Capital Development Authority, UCDA, has demolished unapproved shops, shanties, and other makeshift buildings in Isiama Afaraukwu, Umuahia North LGA of Abia State.

The General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, said that some of the demolished structures allegedly served as hideouts for criminals and drug peddlers, prompting the state government to move against them.

He said that the owners of the demolished structures were properly served notices by the Abia State Government on March 17 and April 17, 2026, before bulldozers were deployed on Tuesday.

The UCDA General Manager stated that the exercise was carried out in line with its mandate and functions as provided in 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 noted that the demolition exercise is not limited to Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku but will be extended across the state capital, saying that the State Government was determined to rid the capital of defacing structures.

He dismissed claims that people’s property was destroyed without notice and advised 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.

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

UCDA demolishes shanties in Umuahia, says they were hideouts for criminals