Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has taken a significant step in rectifying a land dispute by reinstating two parcels of land to the family of the late General Sani Abacha. The lands, which had been revoked and seized under the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, were returned to the Abacha family following a two-year legal battle.
The two properties, located in prime areas of Kaduna city, include a 2,284-square-meter plot at No. 9 Abakpa GRA and a 3,705-square-meter plot at No. 1 Degel Road, Ungwan Rimi GRA. These lands were initially revoked in 2022 due to alleged contraventions of terms under the Land Use Act, 1978.
The Abacha family, represented by their lawyer, Reuben Atabo (SAN), had sought legal redress, arguing that the revocation was unfairly targeted at the family. Atabo revealed that the revocation notice, published in a local newspaper in April 2022, included the name of Sani Abacha, causing embarrassment to the family. The lawyer filed suits in the Kaduna State High Court, seeking justice for the family.
In response to the legal action, Governor Sani, exercising his powers under the Land Use Act, approved the reinstatement of the titles for both properties. Two official letters were issued by the Kaduna Geographic Information Service (KADGIS) on December 10, 2024, confirming the return of the lands to Mohammed Sani Abacha, subject to the payment of outstanding ground rent and other fees.
The letters, signed by Mustapha Haruna, the Deed Registrar, outlined the terms for the reinstatement of the properties, signaling a resolution to a longstanding issue.
Governor Sani’s decision to return the land has been hailed as a fair and balanced move, one that restores justice to the Abacha family and helps maintain peace and harmony in the state. The governor has expressed confidence that the resolution will foster goodwill and cooperation among all parties involved.
This decision marks a new chapter in the land dispute and demonstrates Governor Sani’s commitment to upholding justice and ensuring fairness in the governance of Kaduna State.
