The Sokoto State Government has sealed one of the offices of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) citing concerns over public safety and an ongoing ownership dispute. Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barrister Nasiru Dantsoho, announced the decision on Monday. He stated that the action was necessary to protect lives and property and prevent further disturbances. The sealing of the office comes amid heightened political tension in Sokoto State.
According to Dantsoho, the government conducted a review of the certificate of occupancy and other relevant documents relating to the property. The findings revealed that the building originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank. However, records available to the government did not indicate any official change in ownership of the building. This development raised concerns about the legitimacy of the ADC's occupation of the premises.
Dantsoho further explained that the government had contacted the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to establish the current ownership of the property. The NDIC is the custodian of the building, and the government is awaiting an official response. The premises will remain sealed pending clarification from the corporation. The measure aims to prevent further disturbances and safeguard lives and property.
The commissioner appealed to anyone claiming ownership of the building to submit relevant documents to the state government for verification and proper documentation. He stated that the property could be released to its rightful owner after the ownership claim had been established. This move is seen as an effort to resolve the dispute amicably while ensuring that the law is upheld.
Dantsoho warned that anyone attempting to forcefully gain access to the sealed building would face legal consequences, including prosecution. The state government will retain control of the premises until the dispute is resolved. This firm stance is aimed at maintaining order and preventing potential escalation of the situation.
The sealing of the ADC office is linked to recent disturbances involving supporters of the party and some suspected miscreants. The incidents have contributed to the heightened political tension in Sokoto State. The government's action is seen as a proactive measure to mitigate the risk of further conflicts.
The Sokoto State Government's decision to seal the ADC office underscores the complexities of property ownership and political dynamics in the state. All parties involved are expected to engage in dialogue to resolve the ownership dispute and restore normalcy to the area. The government's role in maintaining law and order will be crucial in the coming days.
Key points
- The Sokoto State Government seals ADC office due to ownership dispute and recent disturbances.
- The building originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank, with no recorded change in ownership.
- The government awaits response from NDIC to clarify the current ownership of the property.
