The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is preparing to begin a large-scale demolition exercise in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, targeting dozens of structures deemed unsafe, including the well-known Zenith Hotel building in Takoradi.

The planned operation follows a structural integrity assessment conducted by NADMO in late 2025, which identified 88 buildings considered hazardous and unfit for continued use.

Speaking to Class News, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Director of NADMO, Alhaji Abubakar Deen, said the exercise is aimed at averting potential tragedies and safeguarding residents from the dangers posed by deteriorating structures.

According to him, inspections carried out around October last year uncovered numerous buildings with severe structural defects, raising concerns about their ability to withstand continued occupation.

The affected properties are located across Sekondi, Takoradi and surrounding communities, with residential buildings accounting for the majority of the structures earmarked for demolition.

Alhaji Deen explained that progress on the exercise had been slowed by efforts to trace property owners and engage them on the next steps. While some owners have been identified and officially notified, others have proven difficult to locate.

He revealed that several of the abandoned structures have become shelters for squatters and individuals with mental health conditions, while some are still being used as schools despite their unsafe condition.

In certain cases, authorities have had to seek court intervention after occupants refused to vacate buildings whose owners had agreed to comply with demolition directives.

Attention has now turned to the iconic Zenith Hotel building and the nearby Prempeh Cinema structure, both of which city authorities consider major safety concerns due to their deteriorating state.

Alhaji Deen disclosed that final technical assessments are currently underway on the two properties in collaboration with relevant stakeholders before demolition works commence.

He indicated that, barring any unforeseen setbacks, the exercise could begin within the coming days. He added that owners of the affected properties have started making the necessary arrangements to facilitate the process.

The demolition campaign forms part of broader efforts by city authorities to eliminate dangerous structures and reduce the risk of building-related disasters within the metropolis.