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Greater Accra Minister Targets Illegal Structures, Indiscipline

By: Elliot Sarpong

Date:

 

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has announced a series of stringent measures aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, improving public safety, and restoring order across the capital following a series of tragic incidents that struck the region on June 3, 2026.
In a press release issued on behalf of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), the Minister expressed profound sadness over the collapse of a multi-storey building at Adenta New Site in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality, a major fire outbreak within Accra’s Central Business District, and widespread flooding that affected several communities.
She extended condolences to families who lost loved ones, those who suffered injuries, and individuals whose homes, businesses, and livelihoods were impacted by the disasters.
According to the Minister, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the challenges confronting the capital and underscore the urgent need for stricter compliance with regulations and more effective enforcement of existing laws. Read Also: Groups Raise Alarm Over Port Operations
“For far too long, unauthorized developments, indiscriminate waste disposal, encroachment on waterways, disregard for planning regulations, and weak enforcement mechanisms have undermined efforts to build a safe, orderly and resilient capital,” she stated.
Hon. Ocloo acknowledged that responsibility for the recurring challenges does not lie solely with members of the public, noting that lapses in oversight and enforcement within some public institutions have also contributed to the situation. She pledged to promote accountability, professionalism, and strict adherence to the law throughout the region.
As part of the government’s immediate response, the Minister announced a comprehensive audit of ongoing and recently completed multi-storey developments across Greater Accra. The exercise, to be undertaken by a multi-agency team, will assess compliance with approved permits, structural requirements, and safety regulations. Buildings found to be in violation will face appropriate legal and administrative sanctions. http://dailydemocratnewsonline.com
The Regional Minister also disclosed plans to intensify enforcement operations to remove unauthorized structures situated on waterways, drainage reservations, road reservations, green belts, and other public spaces. She explained that such interventions are critical to improving drainage systems, reducing flood risks, and protecting public infrastructure.
In addition, enforcement agencies have been directed to strengthen monitoring of planning, building, and environmental regulations, with firm action to be taken against violators.
Hon. Ocloo further announced that the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council will strengthen oversight through the Regional Spatial Planning Committee to ensure effective development control at the district level.
To address sanitation challenges, the government will introduce measures to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and promote responsible environmental practices across the region. The Minister stressed that maintaining a clean environment remains essential in preventing floods and safeguarding public health.
She also revealed plans to strengthen citizen reporting mechanisms to enable residents to report illegal developments, environmental violations, and misconduct by public officials.
Assuring residents of government’s commitment to enforcing the measures without fear or favour, Hon. Ocloo said the objective is to build a safer, cleaner, more orderly, and resilient Greater Accra where regulations are respected and lives are protected.
She called on residents, developers, landlords, traders, transport operators, traditional authorities, faith-based organizations, and public officials to support the initiative.
“The future of Greater Accra depends on our collective commitment to discipline, responsibility and respect for the rule of law,” she emphasized.
Declaring a new era of enforcement, the Minister concluded: “Accra will no longer be a sanctuary for indiscipline. The time for compliance, accountability and responsible citizenship is now.”

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