The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has begun demolishing properties in Kano, citing irregularities in ownership claims.
Residents affected by the demolition argue they legally acquired the properties under a federal government-approved monetization policy.
Obadaki Muhammad Mustapha, a Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) staff, condemned FAAN’s actions as a violation of their rights.
Mustapha stated that since 2011, residents had engaged in discussions with the government regarding the purchase of their homes.
By 2021, the federal government reportedly approved the sales, and occupants received ownership documents for the properties.
FAAN, however, insists it was never consulted and argues the sales were unauthorized, making the demolitions necessary.
Ahmad Danjuma, FAAN’s Acting Regional General Manager for Northwest Kano, defended the demolition exercise as justified.
According to Danjuma, the properties were originally built as institutional duty quarters for aviation staff and should remain so.
He further alleged that some FAAN staff illegally resold the properties to third parties, violating original agreements.
The affected residents have taken legal action, seeking a restraining order against FAAN to prevent further demolitions.
FAAN maintains it followed proper procedures and acted on directives from its headquarters to reclaim the properties.
Tensions remain high as both parties await legal proceedings to determine the rightful ownership of the disputed properties.
