The Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, PCACC, has busted a suspected land-grabbing syndicate in the state, seizing over 1,200 land sand arresting some of the Kingpins.
Already the Anti Corruption body has launched an investigation into the notorious syndicate involved in alleged fraudulent land-grabbing activities, to further unearth those involved in the criminal acts.
Speaking to Newsmen, the State Chairman of the Commission, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, Friday, said the syndicate, allegedly operating in active connivance with some judiciary staff, lawyers, and other land officials, has been accused of orchestrating elaborate schemes to illegally acquire public and private lands.
According to the Chairman, already, preliminary findings revealed a complex network of fraudsters who exploit loopholes in the system to forge documents, backdate sales agreements and obtain fraudulent court judgments.
Rimingado, detailed the syndicate’s modus operandi, stating, “the land-grabbers specialize in colluding with individuals in positions of authority to acquire lands fraudulently. They manipulate legal processes, forge affidavits, and backdate documents to legitimize their claims. Many of these cases involve lands belonging to deceased individuals, absentee owners, or those unaware of the activities.”
Rimingado highlighted a specific case involving 40 plots of land, revealing that the original owner still held valid certificates of ownership.
“The owner never mortgaged the land, yet the syndicate managed to seize it. We have recovered these plots and returned them to their rightful owner. The value of the land is estimated at over ₦20 million,” he added, presenting evidence of ownership and fraudulent documentation.
During the investigation, PCACC apprehended several suspects, including lawyers and public officials. Among those arrested was a key suspect found with ₦2,857,000 in cash at the time of his arrest, alongside other incriminating evidence.
“The suspect even attempted to bribe the arresting officer with the cash in exchange for his freedom,” Rimingado disclosed.
The Chairman noted that some lawyers and public officers were complicit in the fraudulent activities, either by drafting agreements or facilitating the schemes.
“We are pursuing legal action against all culprits. Based on legal advice, we will take appropriate steps to ensure justice is served,” he said.
Rimingado further explained how the syndicate exploited the legal system by filing bogus applications, creating fictitious defendants, and obtaining consent judgments.
“They would present these judgments to intimidate landowners, claiming the courts had ruled in their favour. Innocently, the courts would grant orders based on the fraudulent affidavits presented,” he explained.
PCACC is working closely with the Department of State Services, DSS, and other stakeholders to dismantle the syndicate and prevent future occurrences.
Rimingado commended the state government’s efforts to clean up the system and pledged continued support to ensure transparency and accountability in land administration.
“This investigation is a milestone in our fight against corruption. It will bring sanity to the system and serve as a deterrent to others,” he emphasized.
The PCACC’s proactive measures in combating land-grabbing activities reflect its commitment to protecting public and private property rights in Kano State.
With ongoing investigations and the promise of reforms, residents can look forward to a more transparent and secure land administration system.