The operation was conducted on Tuesday by a team led by the Commissioner for Capital City Development and Urban Planning, Richard Ugo Idike, and the Commissioner for Internal Security, Prince Etta Uka Ude, alongside security operatives and members of the ministry’s task force.
Speaking to journalists during an inspection of the facility, Idike expressed concern over the security implications of activities reportedly taking place at the building.
He said the presence of occupants allegedly drawn from different states at an unauthorised facility had raised concerns about public safety and security in the surrounding area.
“The presence of individuals reportedly drawn from different states within an unapproved facility raises critical security and public safety concerns for the area,” Idike stated.
During the operation, enforcement officers reportedly discovered substances suspected to be illicit drugs, including materials identified as “Colos” and Indian hemp. The suspected substances were seized by security operatives, while the premises were secured.
Idike reiterated the Ebonyi State Government’s position that buildings and commercial facilities within the capital city must comply with approved development plans and relevant regulations.
He warned property developers and owners against constructing or operating buildings without obtaining the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Capital City Development and Urban Planning.
“Property developers and building owners must obtain necessary approvals from the Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning before commencing construction or operations,” he said.
The commissioner added that the government would not permit unauthorised buildings to be used for activities considered threats to public peace and security.
“The government will not tolerate the use of unapproved buildings for activities that jeopardize public peace,” he warned.
Following the inspection, Idike ordered the immediate and indefinite sealing of the guest house pending compliance with the state’s development regulations.
He also summoned the property owner to appear before the ministry and explain the circumstances surrounding the establishment and operation of the facility.
Meanwhile, Ude assured residents that the state government remained committed to preventing criminal activities and addressing security threats across Ebonyi State.
“Our primary mandate is to guarantee the security and protection of all residents in Ebonyi State. Under the leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, this administration will not allow any premises to become a haven for criminal activities,” he said.
The internal security commissioner urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance of commercial establishments across Abakaliki, warning against the use of business premises as cover for unlawful activities.
“I urge our security agencies to intensify surveillance on commercial establishments across Abakaliki to prevent criminal elements from exploiting business premises to compromise public safety,” Ude stated.
He also emphasised the importance of cooperation among government agencies, security personnel and residents in identifying and preventing potential threats.
“Collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, and the public remains vital,” he added.
As of the time of filing the report, the arrested suspects were reportedly in police custody as investigations continued. Security operatives were also making efforts to locate the owner of the guest house.
The operation forms part of the state government’s efforts to enforce urban planning regulations, address unauthorised structures and tackle suspected criminal activities within Abakaliki.
Authorities have yet to disclose further details about the identities of the suspects or whether formal charges have been filed. The allegations against those arrested remain subject to investigation.
