AN ASSESSMENT OF DETERIORATING URBAN ENVIRONMENT OF INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE BUFFER ZONE OF THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC ADO-EKITI, NIGERIA

Abstract

The rate of population growth and rapid urbanization all over the world has made housing problem a global issue, confronting both the developed and developing countries although with varying degree of severity. The aim of this research work is to assess the housing conditions in terms of overcrowding, inadequate infrastructural facilities, physical conditions of the buildings, surrounding environmental quality and socioeconomic characteristic of the residents, along the buffer zone of the Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti. The area was digitized through Google map. Housing and population survey revealed a total population of 1860 inhabitants in the area. According to Neuman (1991), larger population permits smaller sampling ratio for equal good samples. Therefore 10% of the 1860 people were sampled given 186 copies of questionnaire that were administered; while data analysis utilized simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages. Findings revealed that, the presence of illegal occupants has implications for infrastructure and services, with inadequate sanitation facilities, overburden public utilities, and the absence of essential amenities creating environmental challenges for both residents and the host institution. Policy measures were recommended based on research findings to improve on the development planning of the area.

Keywords: Buffer zone, Population, Housing conditions, Illegal occupants, Overcrowding.

DOI: 10.7176/JEES/15-3-04

Publication date: May 30th 2025