In Kano State Four Killed as Demolition exercise Turns Violent

At least four people were killed in Rimin Auzinawa, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State, on Sunday night following a clash between residents and security operatives during a demolition exercise. The incident, which has sparked outrage and tension in the area, reportedly escalated when security personnel opened fire after residents resisted the demolition of their buildings.

Clash Erupts Over Demolition exercise of Buildings in kano state;

The violence erupted after officials from the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), accompanied by security operatives, moved into the area to demolish structures allegedly built on land belonging to Bayero University, Kano (BUK). Witnesses reported that the demolition team arrived unannounced, prompting immediate resistance from residents who claimed their properties had previously been cleared by KNUPDA.

“In the ensuing chaos, security operatives allegedly opened fire, killing two people on the spot, while two others were rushed to the hospital, where they were later pronounced dead,” a witness said. The affected buildings, mostly residential structures under construction, were reportedly about 40 in number. Some residents argued that KNUPDA had earlier assured them that their properties were not within the university’s land, making the sudden demolition even more distressing.

Security Operatives Accused of Using Excessive Force

Residents have accused security personnel of using excessive force during the operation, leading to the loss of innocent lives. A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, lamented the tragic turn of events, stating that people only tried to defend their homes when security forces responded with gunfire.

“We resolved all issues with KNUPDA. They assured us that our properties were not within the BUK land. But on Sunday night, they came back with security operatives and started demolishing the buildings. When people resisted, they opened fire, killing four individuals who have now been buried. It’s a tragic situation,” the resident recounted.

Efforts to obtain an official response from KNUPDA were unsuccessful, as the agency’s Managing Director could not be reached. The KNUPDA office was reportedly deserted on Monday, with many officials allegedly going into hiding for fear of retaliation from aggrieved residents.

Kano State Authorities Respond Amid Growing Tension

The Kano State Police Command confirmed the incident but directed inquiries to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), whose personnel were also involved in the security operation. The NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, defended the actions of security personnel, stating that they were deployed to the area to protect government property but were met with hostility.

“We went there to provide security and safeguard government properties. However, the residents attacked our personnel, injured one of our officers, and damaged our vehicles,” Abdullahi said. His statement suggests that security forces responded to an escalating situation rather than initiating violence, though residents dispute this claim.

Meanwhile, the Kano State Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning confirmed that the land in dispute belongs to Bayero University but declined to make further comments. Sources within the ministry indicated that the government would soon issue an official statement regarding the matter.

Calls for Justice as Families Mourn Victims

The killings have triggered widespread condemnation from residents and human rights groups, who are demanding an independent investigation into the use of lethal force by security personnel. Families of the deceased have called on the Kano State Government to intervene and ensure justice for the victims.

Community leaders have also urged authorities to provide clarity on the land ownership dispute and prevent further demolition exercises that could lead to more violence. “We want answers. Why were our people killed? If the land belongs to BUK, why did KNUPDA earlier clear our properties? The government must be held accountable,” a grieving relative of one of the victims said.

As tensions remain high, security has been increased in the area to prevent further unrest. The incident underscores the growing concerns over forced evictions and land disputes in Nigeria, which often result in violent confrontations between citizens and law enforcement agencies.