By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Federal High Court in Gyadi-Gyadi, Kano, has fined the Kano State Government 30 billion Naira for the unauthorised demolition of shops within the historic Idi Mosque premises at Kofar Mata.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Simon Ameboda, strongly condemned the government’s actions, labelling the demolition as an “illegal activity full of brutality and malice.”
The court’s decision also mandated the state government to compensate the affected businessmen whose shops were razed to the ground.
Justice Ameboda emphasised the severity of the government’s offence against the less privileged members of the community, leading to the imposition of a significant fine.
This substantial penalty serves as a stern warning against any future attempts by government entities to infringe upon the property rights of individuals and small businesses within the state.
The ruling also included a restraining order, preventing the Kano Government from interfering with the lands and affairs of the shops, including reallocating them to other entities.
The legal community and activists have applauded the court’s decision, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring accountability and justice, particularly for those who are economically vulnerable.
The affected businessmen, their legal representatives, and the community have expressed relief and satisfaction with the court’s verdict, hoping that this landmark judgement will serve as a precedent, deterring any similar actions by government authorities in the future.
