Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has signed an executive order prohibiting the allocation of land for curve-outs or corner shops under any guise.

The order, whichh came into effect on October 24, 2024, aims to curb illegal land allocations and protect public spaces across the state.

?No public institution or individual, including local government councils, KNUPDA, the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, REMASAB, or any other agency, will be allowed to initiate or approve the erection of any structure ? temporary or permanent ? under the name of curve-out or corner shop,? the governor announced.

The order extends to both urban and metropolitan areas.

Governor Yusuf cited concerns about the illegal allocation of land on public premises such as schools and hospitals, noting that the state government had been flooded with complaints from citizens.

?The Kano State Government is deeply concerned about the illegal creation of corner shops and business premises on public lands, especially within school compounds and hospital grounds,? the governor said, adding that such practices threaten public services. ?This executive order became necessary to safeguard our public utilities and halt the reckless encroachment of land by officials and institutions.?

The executive order, which was signed in the presence of Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo and Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly Ismail Jibrin Falgore, also forbids any ministry, department, or agency from converting, selling, or transferring any public property without the express consent of the governor.

?No entity ? whether local government council or federal institution ? shall approve the conversion or sale of public land without prior approval from the governor,? the governor emphasized.

The law also Introduces strict provisions regarding ancient cultural landmarks. ?No occupancy permit shall be issued for any part of the ancient Kano city walls (Ganuwa),? Governor Yusuf declared, reinforcing the protection of Kano?s historical heritage.

In a bid to ensure compliance, the governor tasked the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rmingado, with overseeing enforcement.

?The Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission has been directed to take all necessary steps to ensure strict compliance with this order,? said Governor Yusuf. ?We will not hesitate to prosecute any individual or institution found violating this executive directive.?

The executive order also extends to grazing reserves and cattle routes, a vital issue in a state where land use conflicts often arise. The governor prohibited any ministry, department, or traditional institution from allocating rights over these areas without government approval.

?We will not tolerate any unauthorized allocation of grazing reserves or cattle routes,? the governor stated firmly.

The executive order, seen as a significant step in restoring order in land management across the state, received praise from various quarters. ?This is a bold and necessary move to protect Kano?s future,? said a resident, echoing the sentiments of many who have long decried the misuse of public lands.

With the executive order in full effect, the government hopes to bring an end to illegal land transactions that have plagued Kano State for years. (Channels TV)

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