…Illegal Parking, Roadside Encroachments in the Crosshairs, As Defaulters Face Sanctions
…Authority Targets Obstructions Hindering Social Service Projects
By Saeed Ahmad Bappah & Adamu Abubakar Kumo
The Executive Chairman of the Gombe State Urban Planning and Development Authority (GOSUPDA), Bappayo Samanja Maudo, has issued a stern warning to individuals encroaching on public spaces and obstructing ongoing infrastructure projects, declaring that enforcement will be swift and uncompromising.
Addressing journalists in Gombe on Thursday, Maudo revealed that despite Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s massive investments in roads, street lighting, drainage, and other infrastructure, some residents have continued to rebuild compensated houses, erect kiosks, place containers on drainages, and encroach on designated rights-of-way.
“His Excellency has made it clear that streetlights and other facilities will not be installed in areas where people refuse to vacate the right-of-way. Our job at GOSUPDA is to ensure compliance. We will not wait until they leave voluntarily; we will enforce,” he said.
The Chairman disclosed community and trade union leaders had been briefed and instructed to warn their people to clear all illegal structures before Saturday, 16th of August, 2025 the day set for full-scale demolition.
The Executive Chairman also revealed that offenders risk demolition of their properties, confiscation of containers, fines of up to 450,000 Naira, and possible prosecution.
Also on illegal parking, loading and uploading, the Urban Planning Authority announced a clampdown on unauthorized motor parks and illegal passenger pick-up points, particularly in filling stations and roadside locations.
Areas earmarked for enforcement include: AYM Shafa Tumfure, AYM Shafa Dukku Road, Danmarina Filing Station Dukku Road, NNPC opposite AYM Shafa Tumfure, Danmarina Biu Road, New Mile 3, Old Mile 3, Aroma Restaurant, Jekadafari and Conoil Filling Station opposite Depot, Bauchi Road.
“Any filling station found allowing passenger loading will be sealed, the vehicles impounded, and drivers prosecuted,” Maudo warned.
In addition, the authority will target heavy trucks and tankers illegally parked or offloading goods in undesignated areas.
Locations under surveillance include Gindin Dorawa New Mike 3, Bakoro near Grain Silos Dukku Road, Masi opposite the graveyard, Jampandu Supermarket, Doma Hospital Street, Gidan Gandi after AG Dalibi Roundabout, Tanimu Tashan Balanga, Tashan Maigari, and the railway station near the timber market.
Truck operators found flouting the rules will face a fine of One million Naira and have their vehicles impounded for three months.
The GOSUPDA boss praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s hands-on leadership, noting that the governor often inspects projects personally and directs immediate corrective actions when issues are identified.
“We have a governor who is steadfast and determined to deliver quality projects, no matter the obstacles. It is our responsibility to ensure his vision is not sabotaged,” Maudo added.
He emphasized that the enforcement drive is not limited to specific locations but will be sustained across the state, including high-pressure areas like Tumfure, until all infrastructure projects are completed and operational.