Niger State Governor Cautioned Against Land Takeover for Bida Ring Road Project
By Daily Nigerian
Former APC Aspirant Raises Concerns Over Livelihood Impacts
Idris Usman-Makanta, a former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State, has issued a strong warning to Governor Umaru Bago regarding the proposed land acquisition for the Bida Ring Road construction project.
In a letter addressed to Governor Bago and shared on social media, Makanta, who also serves as the state chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), expressed deep concerns about the project’s potential impact on local communities.
Threat to Agricultural Livelihoods
The former politician emphasized that the lands marked for acquisition are not vacant but represent generations-old farmlands that support thousands of families. He warned that the project could:
- Disrupt critical farming activities
- Threaten regional food security
- Increase poverty levels
- Displace agricultural workers
Potential for Social Unrest
Makanta’s letter highlighted additional concerns about possible land disputes and communal tensions arising from the acquisition, particularly in areas where land boundaries lack clear documentation.
“In a time when we should be promoting peace and unity, we must tread carefully to avoid unintended crises,” the letter stated.
Recommendations for Sustainable Development
While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure development, Makanta proposed several mitigation measures:
- Reducing the acquisition width to minimum necessary dimensions
- Direct community engagement to understand local concerns
- Fair and prompt compensation for affected landowners
- Establishment of a conflict resolution committee
Call for Balanced Approach
The RIFAN chairman concluded with an appeal for inclusive development: “Development should never come at the cost of displacing the very people it aims to serve. I believe that with sincere dialogue and thoughtful planning, the ring road project can move forward in a way that respects both infrastructure goals and human dignity.”
For more details, read the original article on Daily Nigerian.