A non-government organisation, Coalition for Good Governance and Change Initiative, called on Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Wednesday to desist from what it described as political vendetta.

Briefing newsmen on the ongoing demolition of structures in Kano, Zahraddeen Sani, who spoke on behalf of the group, in front of the demolished Daula Hotel, said Kano people were displeased with the governor’s actions.

He said, “We are here to express our grievances over the demolition of properties legally acquired by indigenes and investors by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf.

“We believe that you will convey our message to the governor, believing that the Almighty God will touch his heart to listen to the cry of the people.

“The people of Kano State unanimously voted for Governor Abba Yusuf to bring development to the state. It was believed that the governor was the messiah of the turbulent times and would continue with the people-oriented programmes of his predecessor to salvage the people of Kano State.

“It is however unfortunate that within six days in office, the perceived messiah became a source of sorrow to many residents and indigenes of Kano State, who acquired land from the previous administration, led by Abdullahi Ganduje, only for the current governor to order the demolition of properties worth over N226bn within three weeks in office.”

Sani said the demolition process was carried out without proper adherence to due process.

He stated, “Let it be on record that six days in office is insignificant for a people-oriented government to order demolition of properties because the time allowed by law for such notice was not followed. It is our belief that Governor Yusuf is using people’s hard-earned investments to settle political scores with the previous administration, which is a bad development. We expected that as you emerged as governor of the state, you would become a governor for all and not just the New Nigeria People’s Party alone.”

The group expressed worry that “the government has earmarked more buildings for further demolition, even though it has partially complied with the ultimatum handed over to him by this organisation.”

“We expect Governor Abba Yusuf to initiate projects that will uplift the image of the state, not unnecessary political vendettas,” Sani said.

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