The Sokoto State Government has sealed one of the offices of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a recent disturbance involving party supporters and suspected troublemakers. The Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Nasiru Dantsoho, announced the decision on Monday, citing the need to protect lives and property and prevent further disturbances. The government reviewed the building's documents and found it originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank.
According to Dantsoho, the government's records do not show that ownership of the building has officially changed. The property was found to be currently unaccounted for, with no clear records of its transfer. The government has written to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), which is responsible for the property, to confirm who currently owns it. However, the government has yet to receive a response.
The building will remain sealed until the NDIC clarifies its ownership. Dantsoho urged anyone claiming ownership of the property to submit relevant documents to the state government for verification. He stated that the building could be handed over to its rightful owner once the ownership issue has been resolved. The commissioner's office is working to resolve the matter and ensure that the property is used for its intended purpose.
The development comes amid rising political tension in Sokoto State, with allegations of attacks involving ADC supporters and operatives of a state-owned security outfit. The ADC has been involved in several controversies in the state, including a recent postponement of its presidential campaign flag-off. The party has also raised concerns about the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) plans for the 2027 election.
Dantsoho warned that anyone who tries to forcefully enter the sealed building will face legal action, including prosecution. The government is taking steps to prevent further disturbances and ensure that the property is protected. The commissioner emphasized that the government's action is not targeted at the ADC, but rather at maintaining peace and order in the state.
The Sokoto State Government's action has sparked mixed reactions, with some calling for calm and others criticizing the government's move. The ADC has yet to officially respond to the sealing of its office. The incident has raised concerns about the state of politics in Sokoto and the need for stakeholders to work towards a peaceful resolution.
The issue highlights the complexities of property ownership and the need for clear documentation. The government's efforts to resolve the matter and ensure that the property is used for its intended purpose are ongoing. Key stakeholders will be watching closely as the situation unfolds, and a resolution is expected in the coming days.
Key points
- The Sokoto State Government has sealed an ADC office due to a disturbance and ownership dispute.
- The building originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank, and its current ownership is unclear.
- The government has warned that anyone trying to forcefully enter the sealed building will face legal action.
