By: John Bassey.
The Kebbi State Government has disbursed N150 million as compensation to 164 individuals for land acquired to construct a new cemetery at Unguwar Dembo, on the outskirts of Birnin Kebbi.
The compensation cheques were distributed on Thursday at the palace of the District Head of Birnin Kebbi, Ubandoman Gwandu, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Birnin Kebbi Local Government, Alhaji Muhammad Dahiru Nayaya Ambursa, revealed that Governor Nasir Idris approved the cemetery project after learning that the current burial site at Dukku in the state capital was almost full.
“Within four days of receiving the report, Governor Nasir Idris directed Birnin Kebbi Local Government, Gwandu Emirate, and the Ministries of Lands and Finance to inspect the proposed site, which had been identified eight years ago,” Nayaya Ambursa said.
“The governor instructed that compensation be promptly paid to all landowners and that construction work should begin immediately. Additionally, he ordered the installation of two solar-powered boreholes and 25 solar lights at the new cemetery,” he added.
He described Governor Idris as a compassionate and just leader, Nayaya Ambursa said, “Death is inevitable for all mortals, and our governor, as a deeply religious and empathetic leader, ensured that those whose lands were acquired were fairly compensated. We are grateful to God for blessing us with such a kind-hearted leader.”
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Lands and Housing, TPL Abubakar Ahmad, ‘Sarkin Yen Sarki’ also highlighted the thorough process undertaken before the payment. “A comprehensive assessment and inventory of landowners were conducted under the governor’s directive.
‘Today, 164 beneficiaries are receiving cheques for the land acquired, totaling N150 million. May Allah reward the governor abundantly for this benevolent act,” Ahmad said.
Representing the Emir of Gwandu, Galadiman Gwandu Alhaji Ibrahim Bashar KKB, and Ubandoman Gwandu Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim, commended Governor Idris for his fairness and commitment to the welfare of the people.
They expressed gratitude for the compensation paid to the affected landowners and lauded the governor’s dedication to serving the state.
