The Ogun State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, TPl. Olatunji Odunlami, emphasized the importance of aligning public infrastructure projects with the state’s masterplan during a meeting with members of the Health, Safety, and Environment Department of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
The IBEDC team had sought collaboration and support from the Ministry to enforce regulations preventing trading and living under High Tension Lines (HTL) across the state, due to the potential risks of electrocution.
In response, the Ogun State government acknowledged the need for a strategic approach in clearing illegal structures under power lines, particularly those owned by petty traders.
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Odunlami stressed that providers of public infrastructure and utilities must obtain planning permits before installation, in accordance with state planning laws and regulations.
He encouraged them to present their plans to the Ministry for guidance according to the existing masterplan, which would help address encroachment issues effectively.
In his remarks, IBEDC’s Business Manager, Gbenga Bamisile, requested government assistance in promoting safety and preventing encroachment, suggesting the establishment of a joint enforcement team.
Despite previous efforts through sensitization and stakeholder engagements, Bamisile noted the persistence of encroachment issues.
The meeting highlighted the necessity of collaboration between infrastructure providers and government agencies to ensure compliance with regulations and safeguard the lives and property of residents in Ogun State.
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