Court Halts FG’s Kano–Daura Rail Project Over Land Dispute
The Kano State High Court has ordered the Federal Government to suspend construction work on the Kano–Daura–Niger Republic railway project, citing violations of landowners’ rights in the Kuyan Ta Inna community of Kano State.
Justice Usman Na Abba issued the restraining order following a lawsuit by the Kano Property Agent Development Association (KAFADA), which represents affected property owners. The suit accuses the Federal Ministries of Works and Transport, along with the project’s compensation consultant, of offering “incommensurable” compensation.
The court emphasized that any land acquisition must follow due legal process, including proper consultation with affected residents and fair compensation. Moving forward without meeting these conditions would violate the Nigerian Constitution, the judge ruled.
Usman Baito, legal counsel for the plaintiffs, said the judgement reaffirms the constitutional rights of the community and warns against any unlawful encroachment. “Any attempt to sidestep these procedures is not only unlawful but a direct violation of the people’s rights,” Baito said.
KAFADA Chairman Isa Jibrin Isa expressed the community’s support for the railway project but insisted on justice and fairness. “We are open to dialogue and cooperation, but our rights must be respected,” he stated.
Attempts to get a response from federal officials or project contractors were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
