The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Bawku West, Hon. James Ayamwego, has issued a strong warning to residents against building on roads, footpaths, and flood-prone areas, a growing concern that he says is impeding vehicular movement and increasing the district’s vulnerability to flooding.
Speaking during the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving service held on Tuesday at Zebilla, Hon. Ayamwego expressed concern over the rising trend of illegal construction across the district. He said the situation is particularly alarming in communities such as Sapeliga, Binaba, and other fast-developing areas, where buildings are being erected without regard for proper planning protocols.
“It is becoming increasingly difficult for cars to move freely in some parts of the district due to individuals building in unauthorised places and obstructing natural flood pathways,” he observed.
He announced that the Bawku West District Assembly is preparing to take decisive action to address the issue by demolishing structures built without permits or on land designated for roads or flood channels.
“We will not hesitate to pull down any unauthorised buildings. People must follow the proper building regulations,” he stated firmly.
The DCE appealed to residents not to take offence when the assembly begins enforcement actions, explaining that he is carrying out his responsibilities in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s development agenda.
“As the president’s representative in this district, it is my duty to help implement the reset agenda, which includes orderly development and protecting lives and property,” he said.
Hon. Ayamwego also used the opportunity to caution illegal miners, particularly those engaged in unlicensed surface mining, to stop their activities or face the full rigour of the law.
He concluded by urging residents to respect local building protocols, cooperate with the assembly’s planning authorities, and work together to prevent future disasters and preserve the district’s infrastructure.
