The Ogun State Government has issued a 30-day ultimatum to all banks operating within the state to obtain and regularise their development permits or face enforcement action.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Olatunji Odunlami gave the warning during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Department of Urban Development at the Ministry’s Conference Hall, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
“Whether leased or owned, properties used by banks are expected to hold planning permits in compliance with the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Regulations 2022. Banks should also obtain permits for their antennas and towers, in compliance with the Ogun State Outdoor Physical Furniture Regulation 2022,” Odunlami said.
He explained that any structure put on the ground, under the ground, or over water qualifies as development and must comply with the relevant physical planning laws of the state. He noted that the meeting was a final call for partnership with banking institutions as stakeholders to ensure orderly development.
The commissioner said necessary notices had been issued previously, and enforcement would commence after the expiration of the one-month grace period.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Sakirudeen Salaam, urged banks to comply to avoid “corporate embarrassment” that could damage the public perception of their institutions.
Responding on behalf of the banks, Shamsudeen Oyeneye of Jaiz Bank commended the Ministry for convening the meeting and providing clarity on the permit renewal process.
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