Protesters on Monday took to the streets of Kano to express their strong opposition to the ongoing demolition exercise by the state government.
Numerous structures have already been brought to the ground, while several others have been marked for demolition.
The government’s rationale behind the action is that the land on which the affected structures were built was unlawfully allocated by the previous administration.
Asserting the need to restore the Kano Urban Development Masterplan, which includes the removal of structures constructed in public spaces, the government said that it remains resolute in its stance.
However, the protesters, who gathered early Monday morning, demanded that the government reconsider its decision.
Holding placards with inscriptions such as “Gov Yusuf, your action is sending away investors,” “Don’t bring insecurity to our state, Mr Governor,” and “Let the law take its course,” they congregated at the site of the demolished Daula Hotel before marching to the police headquarters to register their grievances.
Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, Zahraddeen Sani Baba of the Coalition for Good Governance and Change Initiative stated, “If the incumbent governor has any issues with his predecessor, we urge him to summon him to answer questions, instead of punishing innocent Nigerians and destroying their investments.”
The protest signifies the mounting concerns among citizens who fear the negative impact of the demolitions on the state’s economy and overall development.
While the government emphasises its commitment to restoring order and adhering to established regulations, critics argue that alternative solutions should be sought to resolve any issues concerning the allocation of land and property.
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