Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State made today’s headlines as he ordered the demolition of a roundabout structure located near the government house. This structure had been erected by the previous governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, and its removal sparked controversy among the residents.
The new administration defended the demolition, citing Governor Yusuf’s commitment to restoring the city’s urban development masterplan. In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, Governor Yusuf specifically instructed security agents to dismantle any structures deemed “illegally” constructed by the previous administration.
The issue gained national attention when President Bola Tinubu intervened and summoned both Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, a supporter of Governor Yusuf’s actions, and former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje to discuss the matter.
During a briefing with State House reporters after the meeting, Governor Ganduje expressed his dissatisfaction with the demolition and even made a provocative statement, mentioning his desire to confront Kwankwaso, saying, “I know he is in the building, but we have not met. Probably if we met, maybe I could have slapped him.”
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Defending the demolition, a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the government revealed that prior to the recent demolition, professional engineers were consulted.
These experts confirmed that the roundabout’s construction was substandard and had the potential to collapse between 2023 and 2024. The statement further highlighted that the size of the structure created traffic challenges, obstructing drivers’ view of all routes linked through the roundabout.
The government assured the public that a new roundabout would be constructed in the interest of public safety and urban development.
What you should know
Since assuming office, Governor Yusuf’s government has actively pursued the demolition and revocation of various structures across the state. Notable demolitions include a three-story building with 90 shops in Nasarawa GRA, shops constructed near the fence of Sani Abacha Stadium at Kofar Mata, and buildings near GGSS Dukawuya and Goron Dutse. The ongoing demolition exercise has also affected the Kano Hajj camp and Daula Hotel, among other structures.
