Kano Government Agrees to N3 Billion Payout for Unlawful Demolition of Eid Shops

The Kano State Government has agreed to compensate the Incorporated Trustees of Masallacin Eid Shop Owners and Traders Association with a sum of N3 billion for the controversial and unlawful demolition of their properties. This resolution stems from a terms-of-settlement application dated December 12, filed before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court (FHC), Abuja, on December 13.

The dispute arose after the state government, on the orders of Governor Abba Yusuf, demolished the shops. Subsequently, 56 applicants representing the association initiated legal action, filing a suit against multiple parties, including the Kano State Government, the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), and various law enforcement agencies.

Earlier, in a judgment on September 29, Justice Samuel Amobeda had directed the state government to pay the traders N30 billion as compensation for the illegal demolition. Despite the court order, the state government failed to comply, leading the traders to file an ex-parte motion seeking a Garnishee Order Nisi to attach the funds of the Kano State Government, KNUPDA, and others. The order was granted by Justice Ekwo on November 28.

During the recent court proceedings, counsel to the traders, Dr N. A. Ayagi, informed the court that both parties had reached a settlement, presenting the agreed-upon terms. The terms were subsequently adopted by Ayagi, and Affis Matanmi, representing the judgment debtors, did not object. Consequently, Justice Ekwo delivered the judgment as consented to by both parties.

Source: Daily Nigerian