01/11/2025
Residents Applaud Land Documentation Exercise, Debunk Rumours of Property Seizure
By Halima Abatcha
Residents along the Pompomari Bypass have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing Land Documentation Exercise, stating that the process is fast, straightforward, and contrary to widespread rumours that properties would be confiscated.
The exercise, currently covering layouts including BOTP 72, 73, 75, and 83, is aimed at ensuring proper land records, guiding property owners, and supporting planned urban development within the area.
Speaking in an interview, Busami Bukar of BOTP 72 said many residents initially feared that participating could lead to losing their properties due to false claims circulating in the community. “We were told our documents would be seized if we visited the committee, but what I witnessed is the exact opposite,” he said.
Another resident, Ishaya Bukar, described the process as timely, encouraging and transparent. “The officials are guiding us step by step. It is fast and clear. I commend the initiative for bringing the service closer to us. With proper documentation, everyone knows their boundary,” Bukar added.
Similarly, Alhaji Amadu Goni Mustapha dismissed false claims circulating in the neighbourhood, confirming that the team is there to help, not to confiscate land. “Everything is clear and straightforward. This initiative is for our benefit, not to take anything from us,” he said.
Abubakar Baba Monguno, a resident of BOTP 75, also described the outreach as a welcome development. While calling on fellow residents to take advantage of the exercise instead of relying on unverified claims, he said: “Documentation and paying land charges are important for development. People should come out and benefit.”
On his part, Abdullahi Mohammed praised the government for bringing the service closer to local communities, saying this is the first time they are witnessing such an initiative. He noted that proper documentation is the only way for individuals to secure their properties and urged others to embrace it.
The exercise, jointly conducted by the Borno Geographic Information Service and the Borno State Urban Development Board, will continue in additional layouts as part of the government’s commitment to safeguard land ownership and enhance effective urban planning across Maiduguri.
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