The Kano State Government has demolished some unauthorised buildings in Sharada, with a warning to developers to obtain approval or face prosecution.
The State Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Abduljabar Umar, gave the warning during the demolition of unauthorised buildings on a parcel of land in the Sharada area of Gwale Local Government Area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the structures were erected on land designated for recreational use in the Federal Housing Authority estate.
The commissioner said that the warning became necessary as the state government discovered that some individuals had commenced construction on the land without obtaining the necessary approval from relevant authorities.
He explained that the land was originally designated as a recreational space for residents of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) estate.
According to him, the illegal development contravened the state’s urban planning regulations, hence any structure erected without proper approval is unlawful.
“We are a law-abiding state, and there are laws guiding any development in Kano State,” the commissioner said.
He said that individuals or organisations intending to build must secure approval from the Kano State Development Agency.
He, however, said those involved in the illegal developments would be prosecuted, as the state government would not tolerate attempts to convert public spaces into private commercial ventures.
Umar further disclosed that the structures already under construction on the land had been demolished, while authorities would continue to monitor the area to prevent further encroachment.
He assured residents of government commitment to preserving the land for its original purpose, as plans were underway to transform it into a recreational park for the benefit of the community.
“Our eyes are on this stretch of land. We assure residents that it will be converted into a recreational centre for their benefit,” he said.
The commissioner also noted that documentation concerning the land was being reviewed, stressing that any rightful owner must ensure “it is used strictly for recreational purposes.
“We will not allow this place to be converted into a commercial venture.”