The Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) has taken action against Breathe Restaurant & Lounge, located at Independence Avenue, Independence Layout, Enugu, by demolishing some of its structures.
The move comes amidst allegations of lacking title documents, fraudulent submission of Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O), unauthorized construction, and change of building permit purposes.
Citing powers conferred by law, the agency stated that the demolition was in line with the revocation of the building plan/permit, as supported by an affidavit sworn by the developer, Ndubuisi Madueke.
The affidavit outlined consequences, including permit revocation, for false information or deviation from submitted building plans.
The ECTDA had previously raised concerns over fake title documents, forged building approvals, and illegal structures in Enugu. Several permits were revoked due to safety hazards to both humans and the environment.
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In a letter dated February 16, 2024, addressed to the restaurant’s proprietor, the ECTDA Executive Chairman detailed reasons for the withdrawal of the approved building plan/permit. These reasons included non-payment of necessary fees, fraudulent submissions, unauthorized construction, and failure to comply with regulations.
While the agency did not demolish the two permitted buildings—a one-storey structure and a security house—it urged the developer to regularize the structures through proper application processes.
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Responding to the allegations, the owners of Breathe Restaurant & Lounge claimed to possess the requisite approvals and accused the ECTDA Chairman, Mr. Uche Anya, of personal vendettas rather than acting in the interest of the government.