No Land Grab: GOGIS Debunks Rumours, Reassures Gombe Residents

No Land Grab: GOGIS Debunks Rumours, Reassures Gombe Residents

By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe

The Gombe State Geographic Information System (GOGIS) has dismissed reports alleging that it is taking over farmlands and landed properties belonging to residents, describing the claims as false and misleading.

Director-General of the agency, Dr. Kabiru Usman Hassan, made the clarification while speaking with journalists, expressing concern over the spread of what he termed misinformation capable of creating unnecessary tension among the public.

He stressed that there was no directive from Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya authorising GOGIS to confiscate land from residents, insisting that the agency operates strictly within the confines of the law.

“There is no truth in the claim that we are seizing people’s farmlands or properties. The government has not given such instruction, and GOGIS has not carried out any such action,” he said.

Dr. Kabiru explained that in situations where land acquisition becomes necessary for public purposes, the agency adheres to due process and ensures that affected property owners are adequately compensated in line with legal provisions.

He further clarified that certain areas, including forest reserves, fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, while the Gombe State Government has issued a white paper to guide the proper demarcation of grazing zones and protected lands.

According to him, a special committee—separate from GOGIS—has been tasked with implementing the demarcation exercise, noting that the committee has not confiscated any farmland or property in the course of its work.

The GOGIS boss urged residents to disregard the rumours and remain calm, while continuing to support government initiatives aimed at orderly land administration and development.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to transparency, lawful operations, and the protection of citizens’ property rights across the state.