Enugu Govt To Pull Down Properties Used For Kidnapping
The Enugu State Government announced on Tuesday its intention to demolish properties, whether private homes or business establishments, that are used for kidnapping activities. This move is part of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s ongoing efforts to eliminate crime in the state.
In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, urged property owners to carefully vet potential tenants before leasing their properties.
Onyia revealed that the government has already identified properties used for kidnappings in recent times and will soon proceed with demolishing them as a deterrent to others. “There is no hiding place for criminal elements in Enugu State. They either repent, leave town, or face severe consequences. The choice is theirs,” he stated.
It is worth noting that in November 2016, the Enugu State House of Assembly amended the Criminal Code Law, which was signed into law by former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in January 2017. Section 315 of the amended law stipulates that any building used for criminal purposes, and whose owner knew or should have reasonably known of its use, shall be demolished or forfeited to the state government.
Despite the law’s enactment, citizens have expressed frustration over the government’s delay in enforcing it, eight years after its passage. In response, the state government explained that it has been conducting thorough investigations to ensure that no one suffers undue losses or faces injustice.
