…says building was erected without approval
By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
Controversy has erupted in Makurdi after the Benue State Urban Development Board (UDB) demolished the fence of the newly commissioned office of the Ahmed Bola Tinubu Support Group 2027 on Thursday, with the action immediately signaling waves of speculation that the move was politically motivated.
However, dismissing the claims, the General Manager of the Benue Urban Development Board, Dr. Ter Mede said the demolition was not politically motivated.
The campaign office was inaugurated m last week Friday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume who was represented by Senator Jack Tilley.
The Director General of the campaign support group, Dr. Kaalu Akeakpev, lamented the action, describing it as “suspicious and unlawful.”
“No notice was given to indicate whether the structure violated any right of way,” Dr. Akeakpev said in an interview.
He maintained that approval had been granted before construction began, confirming, “We have reported the matter to the relevant authorities for investigation for onward justice.”
The GM noted that the action was strictly in line with urban planning rules, citing safety and regulatory violations.
Dr. Mede explained that the fence extended beyond the approved plan, noting, “Every structure along trunk A roads must maintain a 90 meter space.”
He further stressed that the original approval for the site was for a filling station, not a campaign office.
The board also found the development to be an illegal conversion by the Jenkins Foundation, which Dr. Mede identified as an entity “known for violating urban regulations.”
Dr. Mede also emphasized the dangers inherent in the location, pointing out that the office was built in a high-risk area where large political gatherings would cause severe traffic disruption within the town.
He warned, “If APC supporters gather there, it could be disastrous. There would be no space for traffic, and lives could be endangered.”
