Accra will no longer be sanctuary for indiscipline — Linda Ocloo declares after spate of disasters

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned that the region will no longer tolerate indiscipline following a series of disasters recorded in the capital on June 3.

In a statement issued on June 4, the Minister expressed sorrow over the incidents, which included the collapse of a two-storey building at Adenta New Site in the La Nkwantanang Madina Municipality, a major fire outbreak in the Central Business District, and flooding in several parts of Accra.

“Accra belongs to all of us. Together, we must build a city that is safe, orderly, environmentally responsible and fit for future generations. Accra will no longer be a sanctuary for indiscipline. The time for compliance, accountability and responsible citizenship is now,” the statement said.

Following the incidents, she announced a set of measures aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, improving public safety and enhancing urban governance across the region.

Key among the interventions is stricter enforcement of planning, building and environmental regulations. Developers, property owners and land users have been urged to comply fully with existing laws, while enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify monitoring and take action against violations.

The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council will also strengthen oversight through the Regional Spatial Planning Committee to improve development control at the district level.

The statement further outlined plans to step up sanitation enforcement to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and promote responsible environmental practices, noting that a clean environment is essential in reducing flood risks and safeguarding public health.

It also highlighted efforts to enhance citizen reporting systems to encourage the public to report illegal developments and environmental infractions.

The Minister said the recent disasters reflect long standing challenges, including unauthorised construction, poor waste management, encroachment on waterways, weak enforcement of regulations and general disregard for planning laws.

She added that while citizens have a role to play, lapses within some regulatory institutions have also contributed to the situation.

“As Regional Minister, I am committed to ensuring that accountability, professionalism and strict adherence to the law become the hallmarks of governance within the Greater Accra Region,” the statement said.

She called on residents, local authorities and stakeholders to support efforts to build a safer, cleaner and more resilient capital.

The Minister also extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and sympathised with those affected by the destruction of homes, businesses and livelihoods.