Property Demolition: Otu Orders Compensation, Dissolves Development Control Task Force

A controversial demolition of a nearly completed private property has prompted an administrative shake-up in Cross River State, with Governor Bassey Edet Otu ordering compensation for the damage and the immediate dissolution of the state Planning and Development Control Task Force.

Otu also directed the suspension of further demolition activities on the affected property, warning public officials and government agencies against actions that violate citizens’ rights and undermine the rule of law.

The governor gave the directives in a statement issued on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, following reports that personnel of the task force demolished the property.

He described the incident as “an outrageous abuse of power and an indefensible assault on the rights of a citizen,” insisting that alleged physical planning violations must be addressed through lawful procedures.

“No government agency or public official has the right to act outside the boundaries of the law, no matter the circumstances,” Otu said.

He maintained that concerns over planning regulations could not justify arbitrary actions or the abuse of public authority.

The governor further directed that appropriate compensation be paid for the damage caused to the property, while ordering the immediate dissolution of the task force responsible for the demolition.

Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness, accountability and due process, warning that public office must not become an instrument for intimidation or the violation of citizens’ rights.

He also stressed that no official was above the law and that government agencies must exercise their responsibilities with discipline, restraint and professionalism.