Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has issued a stern warning to traditional leaders, urging them to halt illegal land encroachment and grabbing to promote peaceful coexistence among communities in the state.
He gave the warning during his Eid el-Fitr Sallah homage, “Gaisuwar Sallah”, at the Emir of Zazzau’s palace in Zaria yesterday.
Represented by Alhaji Muktar Shehu, Special Adviser on Traditional Affairs, Sani highlighted that the state government had been receiving complaints of illegal land grabs by village and ward heads.
The Governor stressed that all land belonged to the government, emphasising the importance of following due process when acquiring land through relevant authorities to ensure peace and stability.
He urged traditional leaders to maintain the peaceful atmosphere in their communities for continued progress.
Sani also encouraged farmers to return to their farms, noting that security conditions in various parts of the state had improved.
In his address, he congratulated the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and expressed joy over the peaceful Sallah celebration.
Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau reiterated his directive to district, village, and ward heads to stop unfair treatment of their subjects.
He also cautioned them against collaborating with illegal miners operating in their domains.
The Emir emphasised that before any mining activities could proceed, proper verification must be conducted by relevant authorities, and the emirate must be duly informed.
He further warned village heads against encroaching on land allocated to the Ministry of Forestry, instructing them to only manage properties belonging to the emirate.
“All lands belong to the government”, he stated, adding that anyone found illegally occupying such land would face legal consequences.
The Emir also reminded traditional titleholders with double appointments to resign from one position, as directed by the state government, or face dismissal and disciplinary action.
He called for unity, brotherhood, and greater collaboration among traditional leaders to ensure the continued peace and stability of the region.
