Accra: The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has addressed the challenges faced by Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in curbing illegal developments, attributing the difficulties to a lack of enforcement power to deal with persistent encroachers.
According to Ghana Web, many structures erected in unauthorized areas proceed without permits, despite repeated warnings from authorities to halt such activities. Speaking to the media before a planned demolition exercise at Laboma Beach on August 7, 2026, Ocloo highlighted that previous efforts to stop illegal construction had been met with defiance, as some developers resumed building under the cover of night.
She emphasized that while the assemblies have not issued permits for the contested developments, preventing these constructions is challenging. Ocloo explained that even after authorities ordered a halt to construction, developers often returned at night to continue their activities, highlighting the difficulties in enforcement.
Ocloo further noted that some developers manage to erect structures within a few days, working discreetly at night. She pointed out that the assemblies' efforts to enforce regulations are frequently hampered by resistance from residents in affected areas. During a previous operation, a task force encountered strong opposition from locals, hindering the assemblies' ability to effectively execute the exercise without additional security support.
The minister concluded that the assemblies require enforcement support to carry out demolition exercises effectively, underscoring the need for additional resources to address these challenges.