SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS IN ADO-EKITI METROPOLIS
Background: Informal settlement in Ado - Ekiti metropolis based on available evidence is confirmed to be on the increase as a result of an upsurge in her population, which came up mostly through immigration. Basically, informal settlement is one of the numerous effects of development and urbanization. The unplanned and illegal settlement in the metropolis has now grown beyond reasonable limits, such that the consequential socio-economic and environmental effects have started to generate much concern. This issue is becoming complex by the day, hence, the call for urgent and decisive attention. Objectives: This study sought to unravel the mystery behind informal settlement in the metropolis, identify socio-economic and environmental challenges, as well as to suggest probable solutions to the identified challenges. Methodology: Both primary and secondary data were sourced and utilized for the study. The primary data was collected through a well-designed questionnaire which was later administered to 400 respondents randomly chosen across the study area. Descriptive statistical technique was employed in the analysis of the collected data. Results: It is established that informal settlement has grown tremendously and consequently developed serious socio-economic and environmental impacts in many stances. These among others include: drug and alcohol abuse, crime, rape, severe poverty, poor service delivery, inadequate sanitary facilities, poor housing qualities and development. Most of the challenges are, however, caused by unemployment, scarcity and high land values in the metropolis, etc. Conclusion: Government should regulate the cost of both land acquisition and building materials as well as encouraging individual intending house developers to obtain necessary documents through government urban planning officials as this will facilitate good housing scheme in the metropolis. Also, the establishment of an integrated rural development programme should be instituted. Unique contribution: This paper has been able to advance probably solutions to the attendant socioeconomic and environmental consequences of informal settlement in Ado-Ekiti metropolis with the view that urban planners will build upon to mitigate such effects. Key recommendation: Government should as a matter of urgency look into the issue of the spread of informal settlement in Ado-Ekiti metropolis.
Environment, Housing, Informal Settlement Socio-Economic.