The Kebbi State government has indefinitely suspended staff of the Ministry of Lands and Housing implicated in land grabbing and fraudulent sales following complaints of land racketeering in Aliero Quarters, Birnin Kebbi. The move is aimed at ensuring a thorough investigation into the allegations.
State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Alhaji Muhammad Dangi-Juli, announced the suspensions on Thursday, condemning the actions of those involved in issuing fake letters of grant and illegally selling government-certified land. He stressed that the government would not tolerate practices that damage its reputation and vowed to take strict action against those found guilty. He also expressed concern over the impact of these activities on vulnerable groups, including orphans and the elderly.
The Permanent Secretary of Lands and Housing, TPL Abubakar Ahmad-Muhammad, confirmed the arrest of two suspects accused of illegal land subdivision and sales, who will face prosecution. He assured the public that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large. Ahmad-Muhammad revealed that the suspects targeted high-value plots in Aliero Quarters, priced between N30 million and N40 million.
One suspect, Nasiru Ibrahim, admitted involvement in the fraudulent land business and implicated ministry staff members, revealing that fake letters of grant were signed by a staff member named Augie. Another suspect, Nafi’u Mohammed, who purchased land for N10 million, claimed he was misled into believing the transaction was legitimate.
The government urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid unauthorized land dealings while committing to systemic reforms to curb future occurrences.
