The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Gombe State Branch has observed with dismay the insensitivity displayed by the Gombe State Government through its Taskforce on Gala Houses and Joints in brazen and wanton destruction of certain hotels under the guise of demolition of Gala Houses.
The state NBA disclosed this in a press statement signed by the Chairman, Benjamin Sati Esq, and made available to newsmen on Sunday.
He said, “it’s common knowledge that demolition does not come without notice after a confirmation of the law enabling the relevant authority to do so”.
“It is with all sense of responsibility that I state without equivocation that, what was witnessed on 14/2/2024 was to say the least carelessness of the highest order. Pulling down structures erected with hard-earned moneys and supervising lawless attitude of mob in stealing and or looting what was legitimately acquired and installed and or stored in the structures demolished without rebuke and or arrest of the perpetrators thereby making it glaring the insensitivity of the Taskforce promoting criminality in the circumstances”.
He noted that Nigeria is not in the state of anarchy or mercantilist era, adding that the country is protected by the rule of law not rule of force.
“WE CONDEMN IN STRONG TERMS the pattern adopted by the task force and call on the Government to inaugurate a committee to review the entire situation and adequately compensate the owners of the illegally demolished structures as what was sort to be addressed were the vices not the hard-earned wealth of the owners.”
He said this is however not unmindful of and applauding the good intentions of the Government in restoring the good morals of our dear city and state of Gombe.
Barr. Benjamin Sati said the Association is hoping that the rule of law, as opposed to the rule of force shall prevail in the interest of public peace, public order and public security.