By, Zakari Haruna
The long-standing land dispute at the Eye Centre Mahuta Layout stems from a large-scale demolition carried out by the previous administration of former Governor Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai. During this period, approximately 300 homes were demolished, leaving many residents displaced and uncertain about their future.
The demolition, carried out on November 29, 2021, flagged properties as unauthorized constructions, resulting in widespread protests and distress within the affected community. Many homeowners had been living in these houses when the demolitions took place, leading to severe disruptions in their lives.
The uncertainty surrounding the ownership and legality of the lands continued for years, with residents unable to secure proper documentation for their properties.
Upon assuming office, Governor Uba Sani recognized the impact of the crisis and took swift action to address the issue. He instructed the Kaduna State Geographic Information Services (KADGIS) to engage with the affected community and work toward a lasting solution. Through structured negotiations and legal assessments, his administration devised a phased approach to resolving the matter.
### A Turning Point: Issuance of Land Titles
One of the critical steps taken by Governor Sani’s administration was the issuance of over 300 land titles to those whose homes were destroyed who had endured years of uncertainty.
The Director General of KADGIS, Dr. Bashir Garba Ibrahim, personally made the presentation of the titles, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring property security.
"The National Eye Centre issue is one of the cases His Excellency instructed us to resolve, which we did, and today you saw how happy they are after I presented their land titles," Dr. Bashir Ibrahim stated during a presentation ceremony.
This intervention marked a turning point, as it reassured homeowners that their properties would no longer be at risk of demolition. Residents, who had previously feared losing their homes once again, now had the legal assurance to proceed with construction and development without interference.
### Political and Social Impact
The resolution of the Eye Centre Layout dispute has strengthened Governor (Dr) Uba Sani’s standing among Kaduna residents, with affected homeowners praising his proactive approach. Retired Colonel Haruna Idris Zaria, speaking on behalf of the affected residents, who is the Chairman Wajen Zama Association commended the governor’s compassionate leadership and endorsed him for a second term.
The success of this intervention has also set a precedent for how land disputes should be handled in Kaduna State. By prioritizing dialogue, legal documentation, and public engagement, the government has established a model that could help prevent similar conflicts in the future.
### Looking Forward: Stability and Urban Development
With their land titles secured, residents of Mahuta Layout can now focus on rebuilding their homes and stabilizing their community. The resolution of this dispute is expected to have positive ripple effects, encouraging urban development and strengthening confidence in government policies.
Governor Sani’s administration has emphasized its commitment to fairness, legal protection, and sustainable development, with residents hopeful that future land management decisions will continue to reflect these principles.
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