The Sokoto State Government has sealed the office of the African Democratic Congress due to a dispute over the property's ownership. The state Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Nasiru Dantsoho, announced the decision on November 2, 2026, citing a need to prevent further disturbances and protect lives and property. A recent confrontation involving party supporters and suspected miscreants prompted the government's action.
According to Dantsoho, the property originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank, and there is no record of ownership transfer to another individual or organization. The Certificate of Occupancy and other documents reviewed by the government confirm that the ownership has not changed. The government has formally written to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, the custodian of the property, seeking clarification on its current ownership.
The government decided to seal the premises while awaiting the NDIC's response to avoid further confrontation and ensure the safety of residents and property in the area. Dantsoho urged anyone claiming ownership to submit relevant documents to the ministry for verification and proper documentation. The property could be released to its rightful owner once the ownership claim is established and necessary documentation is completed.
The sealing of the ADC office comes amid heightened political tension in Sokoto State, with allegations of attacks involving supporters of the ADC and operatives of state-owned security outfits. The government warned that anyone attempting to forcefully gain access to the building despite the government's action would face the full weight of the law.
Dantsoho emphasized that the premises would remain sealed and under the control of the state government until the dispute is resolved. The government is taking steps to prevent further incidents and protect the property. The NDIC has yet to respond to the government's inquiry about the property's ownership.
The dispute over the ADC office is the latest development in Sokoto State's volatile politics. The state's political landscape has been marked by tensions between different parties and factions. The government's decision to seal the office is aimed at maintaining peace and order in the area.
The Sokoto State Government's action has sparked mixed reactions from various stakeholders, with some calling for calm and others demanding that the government take a more decisive stance. The situation remains volatile, and further developments are expected as the dispute over the ADC office continues to unfold.
Key points
- The Sokoto State Government has sealed the ADC office due to a dispute over ownership.
- The property originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank, with no record of ownership transfer.
- The government is seeking clarification from the NDIC on the property's current ownership.
