A Kano-based philanthropist and businessman, Alhaji Ibrahim Mukhtar Mohammad, has accused the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) of demolishing his N20 million building despite allegedly extorting money from him during and after its construction. 

Mohammad, who is also the Managing Director of IMUK Logistics Concept and Shankus Construction Company, described the demolition exercise as politically motivated, vowing to take immediate legal action and labelling the act as both unjust and traumatic. 

Speaking on Friday at the demolished site on Zoo Road, behind Alhamsad Tour, aka New Gandu Layout, Mohammad displayed evidence, including stamped application letters for permission to build, receipts of payments, and a detailed architectural drawing—all of which bore KNUPDA’s stamp of acknowledgement. 

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He stated that “It’s not just the loss of the building; it’s the psychological torture,” Mohammed lamented. “Who will pay for this demolition, for the tears shed, for the dreams shattered?

“This was not for personal gain—it was to provide economic opportunities for others. Now, all that is gone, and the pain is unquantifiable,” he added. 

He revealed that the structure, meant to house a temporary eatery, was almost complete, with only furniture installation remaining. Yet, without notice, KNUPDA moved in and turned the project into rubble. 

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He recounted that, “This area was once a den of filth and crime. We cleaned it up and gave it a purpose. But now, the destruction is devastating.

“KNUPDA not only took money but deceived us every step of the way—sending representatives, instructing us on modifications, only to destroy it in the end,” he added. 

According to him, KNUPDA officials had assured him of meetings to resolve any issues, only to proceed with the demolition.

“I was told to meet the Managing Director on Monday, then rescheduled to Thursday, but by then, the damage was already done. Calls and messages to the MD went unanswered. It was a betrayal I never expected.” 

He also decried the larger implications of the act, saying, “This was more than a building; it was an opportunity for youths to gain employment and for families to earn a living. Now, everything has been taken away, and the area is back to being a wasteland.” 

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Determined to seek justice, Mohammed stated, “I’ve engaged my lawyers. We’re reviewing all documents and will take necessary legal action. This isn’t just about me—it’s about ensuring such injustice doesn’t happen to others.” 

The shocking allegations have sparked public outrage, with many questioning KNUPDA’s procedures and the alleged extortion practices.

For now, Mohammad’s fight for justice continues as he seeks accountability for the devastation he endured.

However, KNUPDA Managing Director, Ibrahim Yakubu Adamu, reacting to the development, at a news conference , argued that making payment should not be confused as getting approval.

Adamu said, “When you make payments to KNUPDA it doesn’t mean you get approval from KNUPDA.”

He further explained that the building was clearly on the road and that it was built without any approvals, adding that KNUPDA gave him notice in July this year.

Adamu also stressed that they never demolished any structure without notice, contrary to the earlier claims made by Muhammad.