Anambra govt goes tough on landlords, gives July 1 ultimatum

The Anambra state government has issued a July 1 deadline to house owners across major cities to repaint their buildings or face penalties.
The directive, announced in a public notice signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, is part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s initiative to create a cleaner, greener, and smarter Anambra.
According to the notice, “Property owners in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia, Nkpor, and other semi-urban areas must comply with the order. Inspectors will begin building assessments immediately, while full enforcement of the directive will commence on July 1, 2025.
The government stated that the move is backed by the Anambra State Environmental Management, Protection and Administration Law 2024, and that non-compliant property owners will face appropriate sanctions.
“This exercise is aimed at strengthening existing building structures, improving the aesthetic ambience, and expanding the green space of the state.
“Buildings that haven’t been repainted in the last 10 years, or those with peeling, faded, or unsightly paint, are firmly in the government’s sights, particularly those located in public view (anya ora).
“The legal authority for this action stems from Part 4, Section 79 (1–7) of the 2024 environmental law, which empowers the Ministry of Environment to enforce measures for environmental improvement and urban beautification.
“A clean, beautiful, and eco-friendly Anambra is possible if we join hands together to improve her aesthetic ambience,” the notice said
Meanwhile, the government has urged residents and business owners to comply immediately, warning that failure to do so will attract penalties as provided by law.