The Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA) has ordered the immediate demolition of a distressed one-storey building in the Oke-Suna area of Ilorin East Local Government Area, citing concerns that the structure poses a serious threat to lives and property.

The agency sealed off the building after receiving complaints from residents who warned that the structure had become dangerously weak and was at risk of collapsing.

According to KWEPA, the reports prompted an immediate inspection and enforcement exercise aimed at preventing a possible disaster.

During the inspection, an elderly resident informed officials that members of the community had repeatedly alerted the property owner to the deteriorating condition of the building. However, despite several warnings, the owner allegedly failed to carry out the necessary repairs or take corrective action.

Speaking during the enforcement exercise, the General Manager of KWEPA, Hon. Jide Aina, described the building as a major safety risk and directed the owner to commence its immediate demolition.

He warned that if the owner fails to comply with the directive, the Kwara State Government will demolish the structure to safeguard lives and property.

Hon. Aina reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining a safe environment through proactive enforcement of environmental regulations, strict compliance with safety standards and the timely removal of hazardous structures.

He also urged residents across the state to support the agency by reporting abandoned buildings, distressed structures, environmental nuisances and other potential hazards to KWEPA for prompt intervention.