Some plots owners in Kaduna Metropolis have commenced speedy development of their sites following the 90-day ultimatum given by the Kaduna State Government to revoke all undeveloped plots within the city centre.
The News Agency of Nigeria, after a tour of some spots on Friday to assess the compliance level, reports that several of the plots owners had mobilised workers to their sites.
Some of the contractors told NAN that the rush was not unconnected with the revocation ultimatum given by the government.
James Kazah, a contractor at one of the building sites at Ahmadu Bello Way, said the sudden activities on the sites were to ensure the property were not lost.
Kazah said: “The times are hard, which was why some of these plots were left undeveloped. But again, it is good for us building professionals.
“I was called to site shortly after my client got the notice of revocation.
“We are rushing to complete this line of shops in front of the land at least to secure the plot, we just hope that this effort will be enough to ward off government.”
Bolaji Adebiyi, another contractor, said the owner of the plot was making efforts jerk up the building to an appreciable level.
Adebiyi said: “I am afraid if the effort will be sustained to complete the work within the 90 days considering the present economic recession.
“Some of the owners who have two plots were forced to sell one off to use the proceeds to develop the one left unsold.
“Most of them are trying hard to abate the risk of losing the property to government.
“When you look around, you will notice that some are just building boys’ quarters at the back of their plots or raising blocks to various levels.”
NAN reports that efforts to get some of the plots owners to speak on the situation were abortive.
Governor Nasiru El-Rufai of the State had on July 12 issued revocation notice on undeveloped property within areas serviced by basic and primary infrastructure in Kaduna metropolis.
The government had said such abandoned property constituted security and environmental risks to the people of the state.