GOGIS Debunks Land Seizure Claims, Assures Residents of Due Process

The Gombe State Geographic Information System (GOGIS) has dismissed circulating claims that the agency is seizing farmlands and landed properties belonging to residents.

Speaking to journalists, the Director-General of GOGIS, Dr. Kabiru Usman Hassan, expressed concern over what he described as false and misleading information. He firmly stated that the allegations are untrue and clarified that there has been no directive from the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, authorizing the agency to take over people’s lands or farms.

Dr. Kabiru further explained that whenever land acquisition becomes necessary, the agency strictly follows due process and established legal procedures. He emphasized that adequate compensation is always paid to rightful owners of any land acquired in accordance with the law.

According to him, there is a forest reserves which are under the ownership of the Federal Government, while the Gombe State Government has issued a white paper outlining the demarcation of certain areas, including Grazing areas and forest reserve, He noted that a special committee is responsible for implementing this exercise, and that it operates independently not GOGIS, He added that the committee, has not confiscated any farmland or property as it continues its assignment.

The Director-General called on the people of Gombe State to remain calm and continue to support the government and GOGIS, He reassured the public that the agency has not taken over anyone’s land and remains committed to transparency and lawful operations.

By: Zahraddeen Bappah