Crackdown on Site Extortion: GOSUPDA Orders Residents to Pay Only at Office

Crackdown on Site Extortion: GOSUPDA Orders Residents to Pay Only at Office

By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe

The Gombe State Urban Planning and Development Authority (GOSUPDA) has issued a stern warning to residents against making any form of payment at construction sites, directing that all official fees must be paid strictly at the agency’s office.

Executive Chairman of GOSUPDA, Bappayo Samanja, gave the directive while addressing journalists about the agency’s ongoing activities, stressing that both residents and staff found engaging in illegal on-site transactions would face legal consequences.

He revealed that the authority had recently apprehended individuals posing as GOSUPDA officials, who had been extorting money from unsuspecting developers at building sites.

“We have arrested impersonators moving around construction areas to collect money unlawfully. Let it be clear that no payments should be made outside our office,” he said.

Samanja also warned against acts that undermine public infrastructure, including the destruction of streetlights, culverts, and other government installations, whether intentional or accidental. He emphasised that violators would be sanctioned in line with existing laws.

The chairman further cautioned residents against erecting structures on waterways or interfering with public property, noting that such actions could disrupt urban planning efforts and pose environmental risks.

Highlighting ongoing reforms, Samanja disclosed that the agency was set to commence a comprehensive house numbering and street naming exercise across the Gombe metropolis. According to him, the initiative is designed to improve navigation, strengthen security, and enhance emergency response efficiency.

He called on residents to cooperate fully with the government to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.

In addition, Samanja urged eligible residents, particularly those aged 18 and above, to take advantage of the remaining window for Permanent Voter Card (PVC) registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“With just a few days left before the registration closes, we encourage all eligible citizens to either register or update their details without delay,” he added.

The GOSUPDA boss reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing urban planning regulations while promoting orderly development across the state.