Chief Uche Anya, Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), has clarified reports surrounding a recent incident involving military personnel from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu. According to him, the officers attacked his residence but did not physically assault him or harm his police aide, as earlier speculated on social media.
During a visit by former members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, led by Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, Anya explained that the incident arose from a face-off between ECTDA officials and the military over urban development regulations.
The controversy began on December 5 when ECTDA officials noticed an unapproved construction project on Park Avenue, GRA, guarded by military personnel. When the developers failed to produce a permit, ECTDA marked the site with a “Stop Work” notice. Despite this, the developers reportedly removed the notice and continued the construction.
Following this defiance, ECTDA returned with equipment and demolished the structure. Hours later, Anya observed unusual activity near his home, which escalated when armed individuals in two Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) arrived at his residence around 2:30 a.m. Using CCTV footage, he saw them attempting to force their way in, eventually succeeding through the kitchen after 90 minutes.
Anya, who described the social media reports as exaggerated, said the matter has been resolved. He expressed gratitude to his former colleagues for their visit and assured them he remains committed to his duties.
Dr. Ogbonnia commended Anya’s efforts to uphold urban planning regulations, emphasizing the importance of enforcing laws to preserve the city’s aesthetic and structural integrity. He criticized those who undermine constituted authority and praised ECTDA for its role in transforming Enugu into a modern urban hub.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between regulatory authorities and individuals or groups seeking to bypass urban development laws, with Anya reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that all developments within the capital territory comply with the law.
Source: NewsDairy