Four Shot Dead as Kano Residents Clash with Security Operatives Over Demolitions

Four people have been shot dead in Rimin Auzinawa, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State, following a violent confrontation between residents and security operatives over the demolition of properties.

The incident occurred when security forces allegedly opened fire on residents protesting the destruction of their buildings. Witnesses say the demolition, which took place on Sunday night, targeted about 40 residential structures under construction. The Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) had previously marked the buildings, but some residents believed the issue had been resolved.

Sources indicate that the disputed land belongs to Bayero University, Kano (BUK). A resident, speaking anonymously, claimed KNUPDA had earlier assured them that their properties were not on university land. However, the demolitions proceeded, leading to resistance from the community and a deadly response from security personnel.

Efforts to obtain an official response from KNUPDA were unsuccessful, as the agency’s managing director was unavailable. When a correspondent visited the KNUPDA office, it was largely deserted, with staff members citing fear of reprisals as the reason for the absence of senior officials. A KNUPDA director, one of the few high-ranking personnel present, denied the agency’s involvement, stating that the demolition was carried out by a task force from the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning.

An official from the ministry confirmed that the land in question belongs to BUK and assured that the government would soon issue a statement. Meanwhile, the four victims of the clash have been buried, and tensions remain high in the affected community.