KANO GOVT SUSPENDS BUILDING WORKS ON WATERWAYS

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By:Tajudeen Aminat

The Kano State Government has stopped ongoing construction on waterways within Kwari Market as part of measures to curb illegal developments obstructing drainage channels and reduce the risk of flooding across the state.

The enforcement exercise was carried out on Wednesday by an 11-member task force established by the state government and headed by the Director-General of the Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani.

Speaking during the operation, Dr. Sani emphasized that the government would not permit any structure that blocks drainage systems or threatens lives and property.

According to him, inspections conducted in areas including Kwari Market, Tal’udu, Eastern Bypass, Mariri, and Danladi Nasidi revealed numerous unauthorized developments.

“At Kwari Market, individuals are constructing buildings on drainage channels and waterways. What was once a 50-metre-wide drainage corridor has been narrowed to less than 10 metres due to personal interests. The Kano State Government will not allow this to continue,” he said.

Dr. Sani recalled that the area had previously suffered severe flooding, resulting in significant loss of lives and property, and warned that such dangerous practices must be stopped.

“This is unacceptable. The government has a duty to safeguard lives and property. These structures pose a serious risk to traders, residents, and the wider Kano community. Anyone aware of illegal developments should report them to the committee,” he added.

He further warned that the task force would continue its enforcement efforts by removing illegal structures and would not relent until order is fully restored.

Dr. Sani stated that those who ignore the government’s directive do so at their own risk, as any unauthorized structure found in violation of regulations would be demolished.

He noted that similar enforcement actions had been carried out in the past and would continue whenever necessary.

He also disclosed that a mosque in Tal’udu was sealed for violating planning regulations.

“It was not only the mosque that was affected. Several illegal structures in the area were sealed. The land had been acquired by the government and designated for specific purposes, such as public spaces or gardens. However, some individuals proceeded with construction without authorization. Anyone wishing to build on such land must obtain the necessary approvals and follow due process before commencing any development,” he explained.

Addressing concerns over the sealing of the mosque, Dr. Sani stressed that compliance with the law applies to everyone.

“As Muslims, we understand that Islam promotes order and adherence to regulations. No one is permitted to build without proper approval or disregard established procedures,” he said.

During the operation, more than 40 buildings across the state were sealed for various planning and development violations.