7th February, 2025
By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
Kano state Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Thursday, visited Rimin Zakara community in Ungogo Local Government Area, where demolition of buildings in plots of land allegedly owned by Bayero University Kano (BUK), turned bloody, claiming three lives with many others injured.
Governor Yusuf ordered the authorities of BUK to stop further demolition of buildings in the area with immediate effect.
He expressed his condolences to the families affected by the recent demolition exercise that resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and left several others injured.
During his visit, Governor Yusuf met with the family of the dead, offering heartfelt sympathies and announcing that the state government will offer adequate support to the family of the three deceased victims.
He also directed the immediate settlement of medical bills for all injured individuals and provided food items to support the affected families.
A statement by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa also indicated that Governor Yusuf announced plans to construct a new Juma’at mosque in Rimin Zakara as sadaqatu jariya (a lasting charity) dedicated to the three departed souls.
Governor Yusuf further unveiled a comprehensive development plan for the community, which includes: connecting the community to the electricity grid; constructing solar-powered boreholes to provide clean water; establishing a primary health care centre to enhance medical services; developing an access feeder road to improve transportation within Rimin Zakara.
Yusuf issued a stern warning to security forces against the use of live ammunition on innocent citizens, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The Governor said he has established an investigative committee tasked with uncovering the causes and identifying those responsible for the tragedy.
He invited the management of BUK to his office with immediate effect and directed them to suspend all actions on the demolition exercise.
Yusuf further assured the community of his commitment to resolving the over 40-year-old land dispute between Rimin Zakara community and the Bayero University Kano.
During a meeting, the Rimin Zakara community leader, Baba Habu Mikail, expressed profound gratitude to the governor for his compassionate actions, stating that the community will never forget his kindness.
On his part, Chairman of Ungogo Local Government, Tijjani Amiru, commended Governor Yusuf’s swift response and described him as a leader who prioritizes the well-being of his people.
He assured the Governor of the local government’s full support in implementing these initiatives and ensuring justice for the victims.
Our Correspondent reports that live bullets from over-zealous security agents killed three people in the community during a protest against demolition of buildings in the area as ordered by authorities of BUK.
