Kebbi State Government has released an additional ₦60 million in compensation to building owners in Jega whose properties will be demolished for the construction of a new dual carriageway.
The cheques were presented on Tuesday by the Chairman of the Compensation Committee, Aliyu Maude, during a ceremony held at the palace of the Sarkin Kabin Jega, Muhammad Arzika Bawa.
The event was also attended by the Chairman of the Kebbi State Due Process Office, Surajo Garba.
Speaking at the occasion, Maude said the extra funds were approved by Governor Nasir Idris following complaints from affected residents who claimed they were underpaid during the initial compensation round.
“We received 60 petitions regarding underpayment. Upon reassessment, 37 cases were found to be genuine.
“A report was submitted to the governor, who approved the release of additional funds to ensure justice for the affected individuals,” Maude explained.
He urged the people of Jega to continue cooperating with the government for the successful completion of the road project.
Also addressing the gathering, Surajo Garba of the Due Process Office confirmed that he was part of the team that re-evaluated the earlier compensation. He stressed that the committee worked professionally, and the governor responded swiftly to ensure fair treatment.
“Governor Nasir Idris holds Jega in high regard as a key economic hub and directed that all genuine cases be resolved. That led to the approval of this ₦60 million disbursement,” Garba said.
In his remarks, Sarkin Kabin Jega, Muhammad Arzika Bawa, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritizing Jega’s development through road infrastructure aimed at stimulating economic growth.
He called on residents to support the government’s efforts and put the collective interest above personal concerns.
“This dual carriageway project, worth billions of naira, is a major initiative by Governor Nasir Idris to boost our region’s prosperity. Jega has long been a center of trade and commerce, and this project will further enhance that legacy,” the monarch stated.
He also urged affected residents to vacate the marked areas within two months to allow for the smooth implementation of the project.
It will be recalled that just last week, the Kebbi State Government disbursed ₦1.5 billion in compensation to traders and other property owners impacted by the same road project.
