Illegal Occupation of Federal Housing Estate in Kogi: Commissioner Issues Fresh Warning

Kogi State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, has reiterated the government’s stance on the unauthorized occupation of the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme (NHP) estate in the Crusher Area of Kogi State. Over 85% of the housing units in the estate are reportedly being occupied illegally, with claims of fraudulent resale of properties meant for rightful allottees.

During a visit to the estate on Monday, February 17, 2025, Hon. Abanika, accompanied by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and other senior officials, inspected the facility as part of ongoing efforts to reclaim the houses for their legitimate owners. The visit follows a series of meetings and warnings issued to unauthorized occupants to vacate the premises.

The estate, constructed under the NHP to provide affordable housing for Nigerians, consists of:

Phase I – 76 units (4 one-bedroom, 48 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom bungalows).

Phase II – 92 units (20 one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 44 three-bedroom bungalows).

Phase III – 92 units (16 one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 48 three-bedroom bungalows).

Many of the illegal occupants, who have organized themselves into a group, pleaded with the Kogi State Government to consider purchasing the estate from the Federal Government and allocating the houses to them at a subsidized rate. They argued that a significant number of them were flood victims and underprivileged individuals with no alternative shelter.

Hon. Abanika acknowledged their concerns but emphasized the need to follow due process, stating that the rightful allottees must take possession of their homes. He assured that the government remains committed to addressing housing challenges in the state while ensuring fairness in property allocation.

Further directives on the situation are expected in the coming days as authorities deliberate on the next steps of action.