The Kano State Special Taskforce on Illegal Structures has taken decisive action against several commercial properties, including plazas and hotels, as well as other edifices across the state for non-compliance with building codes. The operation was spearheaded by Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, who also heads the Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), and his 11-member committee conducted the enforcement on Monday throughout various parts of the Kano metropolis.
During the exercise, Sani reported that approximately 14 buildings were sealed in diverse areas such as Gandu Industrial Layout, Dangi along Zoo Road, Ahmadu Bello Way, Hadeija Road, and Sokoto Road. He noted that two plazas in Gandu Industrial Layout were closed, and an unfinished hotel project along Sokoto Road was also halted. Additionally, work on another hotel was stopped, and multiple other structures, residences, and cafes were shut down for lacking proper permits.
Sani emphasized that the committee, recently formed to address unlawful constructions, found that some buildings had no approval documents at all, others had lapsed permits, and some had been converted from residential to commercial use without authorization. He also pointed out that in certain cases, the constructed buildings did not match what was originally approved, constituting a serious violation. The taskforce boss stressed that the enforcement aims to protect public safety and prevent potential disasters like building collapses. He warned property owners to regularize their documents and adhere strictly to regulations, as the taskforce will continue its operations to ensure compliance. This crackdown is part of the Kano State Government’s broader initiative to bring order to urban development and guarantee that all constructions meet necessary safety and planning standards.