The Coalition for Good Governance and Change Initiative (CGGCI) has submitted a petition to the United States of America (USA), European Union (EU), China, and other members of the international community regarding the recent insensitive demolitions carried out by the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf. The coalition is urging for a visa ban to be imposed on the governor and his family members due to what they describe as “anti-democratic activities and human rights violations.”
In the petition, signed by the national coordinator of the coalition, Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi, they express concern over the loss of lives during the demolition exercise. The coalition, acting as a Civil Society Organization, believes this warrants international attention and intervention.
The petition, titled “Violation of Human Rights and Anti-Democratic Actions of Mr. Abba Yusuf, the Executive Governor of Kano State: An Urgent Call for Visa Ban,” was received and acknowledged by the offices and embassies of the respective countries in Abuja. Copies of the petition were made available to the press in the capital on Saturday.
According to the coalition, Governor Abba Yusuf ordered the massive demolition of properties belonging to Kano State indigenes and investors within just six days of assuming office. The coalition’s investigation revealed that some of the demolished lands had been legally allocated by the previous administration to individuals and corporate allottees, who had followed the proper procedures and even made financial payments to the state government. These allocations were subsequently sold or transferred to other interested parties.
The coalition highlights specific instances of demolition, including a 90-room hotel, valued at over N10 billion, which was intended to create job opportunities for unemployed youths and serve as a resort. They express disappointment that the demolition occurred without following due process. Additionally, a 90-shop plaza and a roundabout designed and built by a female architect to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Kano State, costing about N160 million, were also demolished.
The petition further notes that the governor and state officials demolished properties belonging to a China-based Nigerian who had acquired land and developed it using his life savings. These actions were allegedly politically motivated, targeting developments associated with the former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s administration.
The coalition asserts that over N206 billion worth of property has been demolished, causing immense distress to the affected individuals and families. Lives were lost during the demolitions, further exacerbating the concerns raised by the coalition.
The CGGCI initially gave Governor Abba Yusuf a 72-hour ultimatum to halt further demolitions and initiate a roundtable discussion to compensate affected individuals. However, the governor reportedly ignored the demand and marked more houses for demolition.
In light of these events, the coalition appeals for a visa ban to be imposed on Governor Abba Yusuf, Kano State officials, and the national leadership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). They believe that such action will compel the governor to reconsider his anti-people policies and redirect the state government’s focus toward equitable development.
The coalition views the visa ban as a necessary measure to hold the governor accountable and ensure democratic practices are upheld in Kano State.
Regenerate response