Despite court order, Kano gov’t demolishes properties

Despite a court order obtained to stop the demolition of over 30 properties at Gurungawa area of Kumbotso LGA in Kano, the State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) has gone ahead and demolished some structures under construction.

Daily Trust reports that a State High Court presided over by Justice Aisha Ibrahim Mahmoud restrained (KNUPDA) from demolishing any structure in the area pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice or until another order is made.

But the structures were demolished on Friday, March 15, 2024, according to the complainants.

Speaking on the development, counsel to the plaintiffs, Abubakar Alhaji Rabi’u Doka, who is representing 23 persons, said his “clients obtained a court order from the State

High Court on December 22, 2023, with Justice Aisha Ibrahim Mahmoud presiding. The court directed KNUPDA to cease demolitions until further notice.

“However, to our surprise, KNUPDA disregarded the court order and proceeded with the demolitions which came to us as a shock.

“In response, the plaintiffs plan to initiate contempt proceedings. Our argument is that KNUPDA’s refusal to comply with the court order has caused damage to the said properties as well as the owners.

“The plaintiffs own approximately 32 plots of land affected by the demolitions, and they intend to seek compensation through legal channels.”

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of KNUPDA, Bahijjja Kabara, said the agency was not aware of the court order but was doing everything possible to address the situation.