Kano govt seals film house, says it illegally sits in residential area

The Kano State Government has sealed off a film house located at Dorayi, Unguwa Bello area, over alleged violation of planning regulations and illegal siting in a residential neighbourhood.
The action was carried out under the “Operation Show Your Document” exercise led by the Director General of the Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, who also chairs the committee on illegal structures.

Speaking during the operation on Wednesday, Sani said the decision followed complaints from residents and religious leaders in the area.

“We received complaints from the community and some Islamic scholars about this centre,” he said.

He explained that preliminary findings showed that the facility did not meet basic legal requirements.

“So many things are wrong, and in this place we cannot see whether they even have the required documents.

Sani further noted that even if the owners present documents later, the structure would still be considered illegal because of its location.

“This is 99% residential area. A film house in such a place violates planning regulations and zoning laws,” he said.

According to him, the government is also concerned about the social impact of such developments on the community, especially on young people.

“We are looking at how to improve the behaviour and attitude of our people, especially the youth,” he added.

The KANGIS boss warned that the government would not tolerate individuals or organisations operating outside the law.

“Anybody that thinks he is above the law, the law will work on him in a legitimate way,” he said.

He assured residents that the government would continue to respond to their concerns.

“I am calling on the community to know that the government is with them. Our doors are open for complaints,” Sani said.

He added that the state government remains committed to policies that benefit the people.

“Kano is first. Anything that will benefit Kano and its people, we will pursue it until we succeed,” he said.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by the state government to enforce planning regulations and address illegal structures across Kano.