Despite promising to reveal the names of individuals who benefited from land allocations in Kano state under the Prof Abdullahi Ganduje administration, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has yet to fulfill his commitment.
Instead, the state government under his administration continues its aggressive demolition spree, targeting structures deemed illegal. This development has raised concerns among the public and fueled speculation about the motives behind these demolitions.
In a statement issued by Governor Yusuf in June 2023, he alleged that a significant portion of the land plots were allocated to the wife of the previous governor, Dr. Hafsat Ganduje, and their children. He emphasized that these lands were originally intended for the benefit of the masses, such as the construction of hostels, lecture theaters, and sports complexes for students. However, they were allegedly converted for personal use.
Governor Yusuf stated,“That place belongs to the masses. Instead of building hostels, lecture theatres, and sports complexes for the benefit of students, rather they converted the lands for their personal use,’’
‘’I can rest assured you that we would make it what it was and for the benefit of the people.’’
‘’There are some personalities making noise over the move to demolish the illegal structures at the place, but surprisingly, most of them were part of the beneficiaries of the allocation of the land. We would publish all their names for people to understand what is happening.’’
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Despite these claims, the Governor has yet to follow through on his commitment, leaving many questioning the true motives behind the ongoing demolition spree. Critics argue that without disclosing the beneficiaries, it becomes challenging to ascertain whether the demolitions are truly in the public interest or driven by political motives.
The lack of transparency regarding the beneficiaries has amplified concerns among the public, who eagerly await the publication of the names. Many are skeptical of the government’s actions, given the allegations of political targeting leveled against the former Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje.
The demolition spree initiated by Governor Yusuf’s administration has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that it aims to recover misappropriated properties and enforce land-use regulations, ensuring compliance and restoring public lands. However, critics contend that the demolitions are politically motivated, with structures associated with the previous administration being selectively targeted.
Below are some properties that have been demolished by Gov Yusuf’s administration.
- Demolition of 90 shops on Race Course by Filin-Saukuwa: On June 3rd, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf personally led an operation where heavy bulldozers razed a property consisting of 90 shops located on Race Course by Filin-Saukuwa in the Nassarawa Local Government Area.
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- Demolition of structures in the Hajj camp area and the former Daula Hotel: On June 4th, Governor Yusuf, along with his Deputy, Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, and other party members, oversaw the demolition of structures in the Hajj camp area and the former Daula Hotel. The hotel had been leased out under a Public Private Partnership agreement for a shopping mall and plaza.
- Demolition of the Golden Jubilee monument roundabout: On June 14th, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ordered the collapse of the Golden Jubilee monument roundabout, located near the entrance to the Government House. The roundabout, previously remodeled and renovated at a cost of N160 million in 2017 by the immediate past administration of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, holds historical significance.
- Demolition of shops near Sani Abacha Stadium at Kofar Mata: On June 11th, the Governor directed the demolition of shops constructed near the fence of Sani Abacha Stadium at Kofar Mata.
- Demolition of buildings near GGSS Dukawuya and Goron Dutse: On June 11th, as part of the ongoing demolition exercise, buildings near GGSS Dukawuya and Goron Dutse were also ordered to be demolished.