Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The Sokoto State Ministry of Land, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development has ignited a storm of public outrage with its newly announced mandatory property recertification exercise, which comes with hefty fees and fines.
Under the directive, residential property owners are required to pay ₦200,000, commercial property owners ₦400,000, farmlands ₦250,000, and filling stations an eye-watering ₦1 million. Those who fail to comply will be branded “defaulters” and fined ₦100,000, according to a memo signed by the Commissioner, Barrister Nasiru Aliyu.
Officials insist the move is part of a strategy to modernize land administration, improve documentation, and curb disputes and fraud. But the public sees it differently.
Across Sokoto, reactions have been fierce. Critics denounce the policy as ill-timed, insensitive, and exploitative, accusing the government of piling more suffering on citizens already crushed by hyperinflation, rising food costs, and deepening poverty.
“Unacceptable!” fumed resident Muhammed Sadau, accusing politicians of wrecking the economy and worsening insecurity. “Despite all they steal not being enough for them, they still bring more calamities to the country,” he said.
For many, the policy smacks of extortion rather than reform. Manir Buhari, another Sokoto resident, summed up the growing resistance bluntly: “We will not pay. If somebody bought it for us, we will see.”
Public commentators also argue that the government is ignoring urgent priorities. Idriss Ibrahim Getso noted that much of Sokoto is under siege from banditry and kidnappings that have displaced communities, destroyed farms, and crippled livelihoods. “Instead of easing the burdens of citizens, the government is tightening the noose,” he said.
Analysts warn that without major adjustments — such as slashing the fees, launching a robust public sensitization campaign, or delaying the program until the economic and security situation improves — the policy risks collapse.
For now, however, the streets of Sokoto echo with a defiant chorus: “We will not pay!”