The families of Late Alh. Ahamadu Rufai Katcha have accused the Niger State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Alh. Umar Yabagi, of using his position to confiscate their inherited family land.
“We appeal to the general public and the Niger State government to intervene in the matter so that our confiscated property will be returned to us,” said Ndatsu Malik, a family member.
The land, which was acquired over 40 years ago, measures 76 by 225ft and consists of 20 uncompleted single rooms and a flat. It is located along Agaie Katcha Baro federal road and is bordered by Alh. Ndanusa property to the east and Cherubim and Séraphin Church to the west.
According to Ndatsu, the Sheshi of Katcha, Alhaji Baba Adamu Umaru had persuaded the family to sell the land to the Commissioner, despite the family’s refusal to sell, the Commissioner allegedly used his connections to bully them and eventually demolished their 20-room house.
“The Commissioner used his position in government to take over our inherited land and went ahead to demolish the house and confiscate our land,” said a family member.
However, the family claims that they have evidence of ownership and that the Commissioner’s actions are a clear abuse of power.
“If the Commissioner refused to back off the land, we will be left with no choice but to take legal action,” said a family member.
The matter is currently ongoing, with the family seeking justice and the return of their confiscated property.
In a press briefing in Minna, Niger State, the Commissioner denies the allegations, stating that he legally purchased the land from Magaji Garin. “I legally purchased the land, and the family could not provide any evidence of ownership,” he said.