Sokoto Government Seals ADC Campaign Office Over Ownership Dispute

The Sokoto State Government has sealed an office belonging to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a dispute over the ownership of the property and recent security concerns involving party supporters.

The Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barrister Nasiru Dantsoho, announced the development on Monday, saying the government took the action to protect lives and property after a recent disturbance involving ADC supporters and suspected miscreants.

Dantsoho explained that a review of the property’s certificate of occupancy and other relevant documents showed that the building originally belonged to the defunct Savannah Bank.

He said government records did not indicate any official transfer of ownership from the former bank to another individual or organisation.

According to the commissioner, the state government had written to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), which he identified as the custodian of the property, seeking clarification on its current ownership.

However, he said the government was yet to receive a response from the corporation.

Dantsoho said the premises would remain sealed pending clarification from the NDIC, stressing that the decision was necessary to prevent further disturbances and safeguard public safety.

He urged anyone claiming ownership of the building to submit relevant documents to the government for verification and proper documentation.

The commissioner maintained that the property would remain under the control of the state government until the ownership dispute was resolved.

He also warned that anyone attempting to forcefully gain access to the sealed premises would face legal consequences, including prosecution.

The development comes amid rising political tension in Sokoto State following allegations of attacks involving ADC supporters and operatives of a state-owned security outfit.