The Sokoto State Government has closed an office of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to protect lives and property after a recent disturbance involving party supporters and miscreants.
Barrister Nasiru Dantsoho, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, announced the closure on Monday, stating that the property was previously owned by the now-defunct Savannah Bank, with no records showing an official change of ownership.
Dantsoho noted that the government had contacted the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), which holds the property, for clarification on its current ownership but had yet to receive a reply.
He explained, “After reviewing the certificate of occupancy and related documents, we found that this property belongs to Savannah Bank, and the ownership has not changed.” The government decided to seal the building until they receive a response from the NDIC, highlighting the need to prevent further disturbances.
The commissioner urged anyone claiming ownership to present relevant documents for verification, after which the property could be returned to its rightful owner. He added that the state government would maintain control of the property until the issue is resolved and warned that any attempts to forcibly access the premises would result in legal action.
This closure occurs amid escalating political tensions in Sokoto, following allegations of violence involving ADC supporters and state security operatives.
