Borno NNPP chieftain challenges gov’t over shopping mall demolition

Hon. Attom Magira, the 2023 Borno Central Senatorial Candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has initiated legal action against the Borno State Government following the demolition of his multi-million naira shopping complex in Maiduguri.

The property, a four-story commercial shopping complex and multi-purpose hall located on Sir Kashim Ibrahim Road, opposite the state low-cost housing estate, was demolished earlier this week.

Through his legal representative, Human Rights Activist Hamza N. Dantani Esq of Kayode Ajulo & Co. Castle of Law, Magira expressed his grievances in a press statement on Saturday.

He emphasized that, as a law-abiding citizen, he sought judicial intervention by filing a case at the Borno State High Court (Alhaji M. Attom Magira v. Borno State Urban Planning and Development Board; Suit No. BOHC/MG/CV/8/2025) to prevent the unlawful demolition of his property until the court determines if any town planning regulations were violated.

Magira alleges that the demolition was orchestrated under the direct orders of Governor Babagana Zulum’s administration.

While the state government has not officially disclosed reasons for the demolition, it has previously conducted similar actions against ‘illegal’ structures and residential buildings in the public interest.

Dantani criticized the demolition, stating, “This act is not just an attack on one man’s investment but a blatant disregard for the rule of law, judicial authority, and the economic future of Borno State.”

He described the action as politically motivated, reflecting the current administration’s impunity.

According to Dantani, Magira legally owns the property, having been granted a statutory right of occupancy and obtaining all necessary permits from the Borno State Urban Planning and Development Board (BOSUPDB).

He asserted that all required fees were paid, and development permit no. BSUPDB/DC/2194 was issued over the statutory right of occupancy no. BO/86138. Dantani noted that during the construction phase, BOSUPDB did not raise any concerns regarding town planning violations.

According to his lawyer, beyond personal investment, Magira’s project provided employment opportunities for local residents during construction and was set to offer commercial spaces to boost local businesses.

He added that in a state affected by Boko Haram insurgency, insecurity, and economic challenges, such investments should be protected rather than targeted for political reasons.