Building plans: Edo extends penalty-free period till April 30, expands operations  

The Edo State Government has extended the penalty-free period for regularization of building plans in the state to April 30, calling on residents to take advantage of the extension to process their building approvals.

The Edo State Commissioner for Physical Planning, Urban and Regional Development, Isoken Omo, who disclosed this to journalists in Benin City, said the extension was approved by the state Executive Council.

Omo said the Ministry has concluded the exercise in the Amagba axis of Benin City, the state capital, adding, “We have visited 5,316 properties in the Amagba area, walking from street to street and door to door.”

“The exercise which started on the 11th of March 2022 in the area has been completed. We appreciate the people for their cooperation. We have taken the data and a lot of people are coming to our office to regularize their building approvals,” she said.

The commissioner added: “As we commence the exercise in Ogheghe, we urge the people to cooperate with us as our officials will visit their properties in the area. I urge those that already have approvals to make photocopies and stick by their gates for our officials to see.

“Over 278 people have already paid the penalty-free fee and also submitted their applications. We intend to do a fast-track system whereby by early next week, those approvals would be granted except for those who are at government acquisition, right of way, moat, or other contraventions.

“The Executive Council approved an extension of the penalty-free fee period till April 30, 2022. People have to take advantage of this period.”