Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of Kano on Monday to voice their disapproval of the ongoing demolitions carried out by the state government, News About Nigeria reports.
Numerous structures have already been torn down, while many others have been marked for future demolition.
The government’s rationale for these actions is that the land on which these structures were built was “illegally” allocated by the previous administration.
Among the structures that have already been demolished are the multi-billion Naira project at the old Daula Hotel, and shopping plazas at the Polo Ground and Eid Ground.
Additionally, residential and commercial buildings in the Salanta area and BUK road have been marked for future demolition.
Despite the government’s unwavering commitment to “restore” the Kano Urban Development Masterplan, which involves removing structures on public land, the protesters who took to the streets on Monday demanded that the government reconsider its decision.
The protesters carried posters bearing messages such as “Gov Yusuf, your actions are driving away investors,” “Mr. Governor, do not bring insecurity to our state,” and “Let justice prevail.”
After gathering at the site of the demolished Daula Hotel, the demonstrators proceeded to the police headquarters to express their grievances.
Representing the protesters, Comrade Zahraddeen Sani Baba of the Coalition for Good Governance and Change Initiative stated that if the current governor has any issues with his predecessor, he should summon him to answer questions rather than punishing innocent Nigerians and destroying their investments.
The demonstrators made it clear that their main concern was the negative impact these demolitions would have on the state’s economy.
By driving away investors, they argued, the government’s actions could further exacerbate the already fragile economic situation in Kano.
They called for a more measured approach, urging the government to find alternative solutions to address the alleged irregularities in land allocation without causing significant harm to innocent citizens and businesses.
Furthermore, the protesters emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.
They urged the government to allow legal processes to unfold and ensure that justice is served.
They argued that destroying structures without due process undermines the principles of fairness and accountability.
The demonstration highlighted the deep divisions within the community regarding the government’s approach to urban development.
While some citizens support the government’s efforts to enforce the master plan and reclaim public spaces, others feel that the demolitions are disproportionate and fail to consider the social and economic ramifications.
