Gov Uba Sani warns traditional leaders against illegal land grabbing

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has issued a stern warning to traditional leaders against engaging in illegal encroachment and land grabbing within their domains.

The governor’s caution came during the annual Eid el-Fitr Sallah homage, held at the Emir of Zazzau’s Palace in Zaria. Governor Sani, represented by Alhaji Muktar Shehu (Jarman Zazzau), Special Adviser on Traditional Affairs, emphasized that the state government has been receiving numerous complaints regarding illegal land grabbing by village and ward heads.

According to him, all lands within the state belong to the government, underscoring the importance of following due process when acquiring land from relevant authorities. He stressed that adherence to proper procedures is necessary to ensure peace and stability across the state.

The governor also urged traditional leaders to maintain the prevailing peaceful atmosphere within their domains and throughout Kaduna State. Furthermore, he encouraged farmers to resume agricultural activities, assuring them that the security situation in the state has significantly improved.

Meanwhile, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, reiterated his directive to district, village, and ward heads to avoid mistreating their subjects. He also warned them against collaborating with illegal miners operating without proper authorization.

The Emir noted that before allowing any mining activities, necessary verifications must be conducted with relevant authorities, and the emirate must be duly informed.

Additionally, Bamalli cautioned village heads against encroaching on lands belonging to the Ministry of Forestry, instructing them to limit their authority to properties belonging to the emirate.

He also reminded traditional title holders with dual appointments to comply with the state government’s directive by resigning from one of their roles.