A contentious issue is brewing in the outskirts of Birnin Kebbi, where residents of Kawara and surrounding communities are sounding the alarm over an alleged attempt to divert a federal road project for personal gain. At the heart of the controversy is a senior official from the Kebbi State Ministry of Lands, who is accused of manipulating the project’s route to acquire land illegally.
According to Bello Muhammad Kawara, spokesperson for the community, the official has directed the contractor to alter the original road alignment, which would provide access to plots of land targeted for takeover. The road in question, which spans nine villages including Kawara, Kardi, and Gwazon Fulani, is a federal government project that holds significant economic and agricultural value for the local population.
The community is up in arms over the alleged scheme, with Kawara stating, “This road is a federal government project, and we are fortunate it was awarded. But we are now being threatened with displacement because a top official is using his position to manipulate the route.” The alteration, if successful, would not only displace residents but also result in the loss of ancestral farmlands and homes, exacerbating tensions in the area.
The communities are now appealing to Governor Nasir Idris to intervene and protect them from this perceived injustice. Kawara emphasized, “Consequently, we are appealing to Governor Nasir Idris to urgently wade into the matter and protect us from this injustice and the hardship it may bring.” As the situation continues to unfold, the community remains hopeful that the governor’s intervention will prevent the diversion of the road project and safeguard their interests.
Despite efforts to obtain a reaction from the Ministry of Lands, officials remained tight-lipped, leaving the community to wonder about the fate of their homes and livelihoods. As the story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Kawara and surrounding communities will not go quietly into the night, and their call for justice will be heard.
