Bauchi govt clarifies eviction of temporary shop, kiosk owners

The Bauchi State Government has provided clarification regarding the recent implementation of the controversial Executive Order for the eviction of temporary shops and structures along major road corridors within Bauchi metropolis. The government stated that criminal elements were using the structures as hideout. Daily Trust reports that following the recent eviction and demolition of numerous […]

The Bauchi State Government has provided clarification regarding the recent implementation of the controversial Executive Order for the eviction of temporary shops and structures along major road corridors within Bauchi metropolis.

The government stated that criminal elements were using the structures as hideout.

Daily Trust reports that following the recent eviction and demolition of numerous kiosks and containers, small-scale businessmen and businesswomen expressed concern about the hardship they now face, having been forced to restart their businesses from scratch.

Addressing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Abdulhameed Muhammad Bununu, a lawyer, emphasised that the implementation of the Executive Order was prompted by security reports indicating that criminal elements were using the illegal structures as hideouts.

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While acknowledging the consequences of the order on small business owners, Bununu underscored government’s commitment to upholding the security enjoyed in the state, with the aim of rapidly increasing security measures and ensuring protection of peace by security agencies.

In response to the concerns raised by the affected traders, the State Commissioner for Land and Survey, Hajiya Amina Katagum, announced that Governor Bala Muhammad had approved the relocation of the affected businesses to designated areas within the city.

“Each business owner will be allocated a piece of land using a cluster system to continue their marketing activities,” she disclosed.

She urged a proper understanding of the initiative, highlighting its potential to address security challenges in business areas and create conducive environment for traders to thrive.

Speaking on the environmental benefits of the Executive Order, the Commissioner for Housing and Environment, Danlami Ahmad Kawule, said its implementation would mitigate environmental degradation within Bauchi metropolis.

“Illegal structures and shops built along waterways contribute to flash flooding and the order aims to address the issue,” he said.