In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a garnishee order, freezing 24 bank accounts owned by the Kano State Government.
This order stems from a lawsuit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of Masalachi Eid Shop Owners and Traders Association, seeking compensation for the allegedly illegal and unjust demolition of their shops.
On November 28, 2023, Justice I. E. Ekwo granted the order, attaching funds totaling N30 billion to satisfy the judgment in favor of the shop owners.
The court has directed the garnishees, including the Kano State Government, Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), and the Attorney General of Kano State, to appear and provide cause against the order.
The next hearing is scheduled for January 18, 2024. This ruling follows a prior judgment by the Federal High Court in Kano, awarding the shop owners N30 billion as compensation for the shop demolitions.