Authorities in Tshwane have begun demolishing two unlawfully constructed high-rise buildings in Pretoria West, owned by Nigerian developer George Asaba, following multiple court rulings.
The Gauteng High Court ordered the demolition in March 2025, citing Asaba’s failure to submit approved building plans. The court found the buildings—located on Luttig Street—to be unsafe, non-compliant with zoning regulations, and a threat to public health.
Asaba’s appeal was dismissed in April. The court also held him in contempt for defying a July 16 order to halt construction.
Tshwane officials confirmed Asaba will cover the full cost of demolition.
Kholofelo Morodi, the city’s MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, welcomed the ruling as a “turning point” in the city’s battle against unlawful development.
“This sends a clear message: no one is above the law,” Morodi said, adding that illegal construction, land grabs, and property hijackings have long disrupted service delivery and endangered communities.
The City stated that the demolitions are part of a broader campaign targeting illegal structures across Tshwane.
Court documents revealed that Asaba admitted to starting construction in June 2023 without approval, though he claimed his architect had submitted plans. The court rejected the defense, noting his ongoing disregard for legal directives and use of a pending rezoning application as a “last-minute excuse.”
