The Greater Accra Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Hon. Dennis Adjannor Nartey, has assured residents that authorities do not carry out demolition exercises without first notifying occupants and property owners through the appropriate procedures.
Speaking during a Disaster Reduction Sensitization Program, Hon. Dennis Adjannor Nartey explained that before any structure is marked for demolition, officials undertake public education and sensitization exercises within affected communities to ensure residents are fully informed about the dangers associated with unauthorized structures, building on waterways, and other risky developments.
According to him, warning signs are usually placed on affected buildings while formal notices are served to owners and occupants well ahead of any planned demolition exercise. He noted that the authorities often provide ample time, ranging from one to five months depending on the nature of the structure and occupancy, to allow residents to relocate or voluntarily remove portions of their buildings themselves.
He stressed that NADMO and the Assembly do not arbitrarily pull down buildings, especially occupied structures, without engaging the affected persons. In some cases, he said, property owners are even encouraged to personally dismantle parts of the structures to avoid further losses before authorities intervene.
The Regional Director further clarified that demolition exercises are only undertaken when affected persons fail to comply with the directives and notices issued after the expiration of the stipulated grace period.
Hon. Dennis Adjannor Nartey emphasized that due process remains a key part of all demolition operations, adding that the objective of such exercises is not to punish residents but to protect lives, prevent disasters, and reduce the risk of flooding and other emergencies within communities.
He therefore urged residents to cooperate with authorities whenever notices are issued, stating that early compliance can help save lives, protect property, and support ongoing efforts to improve safety and disaster preparedness across the Greater Accra Region.
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