In a shocking turn of events, the Ogun State government demolished the five-story DATKEM Plaza, owned by Her Excellency Yeye Olufunke Daniel situated at Folagbade Street, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State
The structure, which boasts full approval, commenced construction in 2009 and was set for a grand commissioning at the end of this September. The ground floor and mezzanine house has a fully equipped banking hall, bank trap doors and a CHUBB Strong Room.
DATKEM plaza features a state-of-the-art Kone Elevator, installed by Kresta Laurel Ltd,and a recent installation of 80 brand new Split Air Conditioners by Holomicool Nig Ltd.
Furthermore, it boasts a 150kVA generator set, a transformer, and a fire-fighting system installed by Flory Ltd. External cladding work is being carried out by Vertex Nig Ltd, and the entire construction is supervised by qualified and certified engineers, including Engr. A Lawal and Engr. Ibraheem Shonde.
Government authorities under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, cite several reasons for the demolition:
Parking Space: Concerns are raised about insufficient parking space at the front of the building. However, the developers are working to tar two undeveloped streets adjacent to the plaza for additional parking, while negotiations are underway to lease an empty piece of land at the back for further parking accommodations.
Muster Point: The government claims an inadequate muster point. Nevertheless, ample space surrounds the building, which could serve as a muster point in case of fire or emergencies.
Airspace: Surprisingly, a new concern is raised about inadequate airspace, despite no adjoining buildings on all four sides of the structure. The absence of a concrete fence allows for proper airflow. Moreover, other nearby buildings reportedly fall short in safety compliance compared to DATKEM Plaza.
Short Notice: The government gave an astonishingly brief notice of just three days before commencing demolition.
Demolition Commenced: Demolition of the N1 billion worth building began at 3 am today Sunday, September 10, 2023, and is currently ongoing. Approximately 100 Nigerians are employed at the construction site.
Notably, there are no reported structural defects on the building, and all relevant government approvals have been obtained. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the third floor of DATKEM Plaza was designated to house the Ogun East Senatorial Office.
This situation has ignited a fierce debate within the community, with many questioning the government’s sudden decision to demolish such a prominent and seemingly compliant structure. As the demolition unfolds, the fate of DATKEM Plaza hangs in the balance, leaving the public eagerly awaiting further developments in this unfolding controversy