by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Government has prohibited indiscriminate parking of trucks, heavy-duty equipment and other vehicles within Jos metropolis. Consequently, vehicles so parked shall be impounded and the drivers of same shall be liable to pay a fine of N500,000.00 only as penalty.
Similarly, trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles are hereby restricted from coming into the Central Business Area within Jos-Bukuru metropolis, from 6am to 9pm, and vehicles of defaulters shall be impounded and drivers shall be liable to a fine of N500.000.00.
The General Manager Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Arch. Hart Bankat, made this known, while briefing newsmen on behalf of the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, on Tuesday in his office in Jos.
According to him, “The growing population in the state has led to an increase in vehicular traffic, and haphazard construction of buildings – which has resulted in congestion and safety hazard in the cities.
“In order to address these challenges and ensure the sustainable development of the state, the governor has issued Executive Order, No. 003,2024.”
Arch Bankat further explained that, “The Executive Order is aimed to regulate the construction of buildings and the flow of vehicular traffic in the state. Under this Order, all new building projects must obtain the necessary permits and comply with building codes and regulations.”
While warning that unauthorized constructions will be demolished, in accordance with the law, Arch Bankat added that, the aim is also to streamline vehicular traffic by implementing traffic management measures, such as designated parking spaces, traffic lights, and road signage.
He said, “Violator of traffic rules will face strict penalties, including fines, and vehicles impoundment. By enforcing this executive order, we can improve the quality of life for residents of the State and create a safe and organized urban environment.”
He urged all residents to cooperate with the authorities and adhere to the provisions of Executive Order No. 003,2024, stressing that, “Stray animals within the metropolis are hereby prohibited, and such stray animals, if found, shall be forfeited to the Government or the owners shall be liable to pay a fine of N250,000.00 only.
“Traders doing business on sites not designated for such shall cease immediately; anyone found in default shall have their items confiscated and donated to the Internally Displaced Persons Camp or Correction Centers, while posters on public infrastructure are prohibited forthwith, and violators shall be liable to pay the sum of N500,000.00 only.”
The General Manager further stated that, “Ownership of buildings without approvals that are condonable within the Greater Jos Master Plan, who have not regularized same within the time given, shall be liable to a fine not less than N1,000.00 for failure to obtain the approval within the stipulated period.
“Also, the rates for processing fees and Building Plans Fees shall, henceforth, be reviewed annually, based on the zones, while erecting a building without first obtaining approval is hereby prohibited; and violators shall be liable to pay 50 percent of the estimated value of such building(s).
“Owners of demolished buildings shall be made to bear the cost of such demolitions, and forensic shall be conducted on any building within the Greater Jos Master Plan that collapse due to structural defect. If it is found to be due to the carelessness of the Developer/Owner of boycott of due process, such a site shall be taken over by the government,” Arch Bankat stated.