In a continued effort to restore order and reclaim public lands in Kano, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has intensified the demolition of illegal structures in public places. The latest demolitions took place at Daula Hotel and Hajj Camp, resulting in the destruction of multi-million naira buildings. This follows the recent demolition of a plaza consisting of over 90 shops on Race Course Road, Nasarawa Government Reserved Area (GRA) as directed by the governor.
These demolitions were carried out during the early hours of the morning, between 2 am and 3 am, leaving residents in shock as they woke up to discover that the structures had vanished. The demolition of the 90-shop structure on Race Course Road occurred on Friday at 2 am, while the buildings on the former Daula Hotel and Hajj Camp premises were demolished overnight.
Governor Yusuf’s commitment to demolishing buildings constructed within and around government-owned lands, which were initiated by the previous administration of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, remains unwavering. Even before taking office, Yusuf had repeatedly voiced his intention to dismantle illegal structures on government properties.
However, these demolitions have sparked public outcry, particularly because many of the affected buildings were erected under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements. Critics argue that the demolition of these structures disrupts the agreements made between private individuals or groups and the government.
Prior to the demolition of the buildings at Hajj Camp, Governor Yusuf personally visited the area and instructed the developers to halt any further construction. According to Comrade Dawakin Tofa, the chief press secretary to the governor, these demolitions align with Yusuf’s commitment to restoring the state’s glory and reclaiming encroached public lands.
The governor’s directive emphasizes the demolition of illegal structures erected within schools, mosques, playgrounds, graveyards, markets, and hospitals to ensure adherence to urban planning, beautification, and the safety of the people. The intention is to curb land grabbing and the indiscriminate erection of illegal structures that hinder the utilization of public spaces meant for social services.
In the early hours of Saturday, the governor’s directive was implemented at Race Course playground, resulting in the demolition of all illegal structures to reclaim the encroached lands. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s firm stance on restoring order, urban planning, and public utilization of these spaces remains resolute.