Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has reinstated two properties previously revoked by the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The properties, located at No 9 Abakpa GRA and No 1 Degel Road, Ungwan Rimi GRA in the Kaduna metropolis, were seized in April 2022 following allegations of breaches of occupancy terms under the Land Use Act.
In two separate letters dated December 10, 2024, the state government informed the Abacha family of the reinstatement of the properties, with the condition that all outstanding fees and charges be settled before the return is finalized.
The letters outlined that the properties would be reinstated under the powers granted to the governor by the Land Use Act of 1978, provided the necessary payments are made.
Reuben Atabo, the lawyer representing the Abacha family, confirmed the reinstatement, calling it a significant development. He noted that the previous administration’s actions had caused embarrassment to the family, leading to legal action against the state government.
The Abacha family expressed their approval of the decision, describing it as a fair and just resolution.
This move marks a shift from the previous administration’s decision, which had revoked the properties based on allegations of various contraventions.
The letter reads: “His Excellency, the Governor of Kaduna State, has in the powers conferred on him under the Land Use Act 1978, reinstated the aforementioned title… Subject to the strict condition of settling all outstanding fees and charges”.
“The Abacha family, through Atabo, welcomed the decision, describing it as a gesture of fairness and justice.
The reinstatement marks a shift from El-Rufai’s administration, which had cited “various contraventions” as the basis for revoking the properties”.
