Aplefe Ojong
The owners of buildings and developers of purportedly approved and illegal buildings or structures standing on wetlands, water channels and canals in Cross River state have been asked to remove such structures with immediate effect.
A public notice titled, “Governor Ayade Orders Stoppage of Development on Wetlands in the State”, dated June 4, 2015, signed by Dr. Chris E. Ita, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Lands and Housing, and made available to CrossRiverWatch, explained that Governor Ayade’s attention has been drawn to the indiscriminate, unapproved development on wetlands, water channels and canals across the state, but most conspicuous in Calabar metropolis.
The public notice ordered the owners of such structures erected along the said portions of wetlands to remove them within 30 days from the day of the publication or face prosecution.
“Government, in the interest of public safety and wellbeing of its citizens strongly advise land developers and intending land developers to cease contemplating any form of development on wetlands, water channels and canals across the state. All concerned are advised to comply accordingly.”