…Call for Probe of Former Bureau of Lands DG, Mr. Teina
By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Fresh controversy has erupted in Lokoja as residents of Lokongoma Phase 1 accuse the Kogi State Bureau of Lands and Urban Development of illegally allocating the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) right of way to private individuals for personal gain.
The land in question, located along the Pacific Hotel axis of Lokongoma Phase 1, lies directly beneath AEDC high-tension power lines.
Despite the grave safety risks, construction has already begun on the site — a development that has sparked outrage among residents.
An investigation revealed that the land was allegedly sold to the developer by Mr. Samari Abdulmalik Teina, the former Director-General of the Bureau of Lands and Urban Development, during his tenure.
Residents allege that the sale was carried out without due process and in total disregard of the purpose for which the land was originally reserved.
In a shocking twist, residents claim that the owner of the ongoing structure criminally diverted the high-tension power line slightly away from the building to create more space for construction.
The act, according to experts, is not only illegal but poses grave safety and technical risks to the entire neighborhood.
Even more worrisome, the controversial building has now been fully fenced, blocking access to an adjoining street and cutting off movement for other residents.
Community members say this act amounts to a total disregard for public safety, town planning regulations, and the rights of other property owners in the area.
“This is not just illegal, it is dangerous,” said one resident.
“The high-tension line passes directly through that land. Any construction there is a disaster waiting to happen. We are calling on Governor Ododo to investigate the former DG and revoke this illegal allocation immediately.”
Another community member, Mrs. Mary Audu, condemned the act and accused certain officials of enriching themselves at the expense of public safety.
“It’s unbelievable that government officials can sell a right of way under high-tension lines. If this continues, we will march to the Government House to register our protest,” she declared.
Efforts to reach Mr. Teina, the former DG of the Bureau of Lands, for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
Current officials of the Bureau have also declined to respond to inquiries on the matter.
Residents are now appealing to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the AEDC management, and relevant security and regulatory agencies to intervene urgently to stop ongoing construction, reclaim the illegally allocated land, and restore public access to the blocked road. They vowed to continue their peaceful resistance until justice is served.
Legal Implications and Safety Concerns
According to the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) regulations, no residential or commercial structure is permitted within 15 meters on both sides of a high-tension power line. Violations of this rule constitute a breach of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (2005) and the Electricity Safety Code of Nigeria, both of which empower authorities to demolish illegal structures and prosecute offenders for endangering public safety.
Experts warn that erecting or fencing properties under high-tension lines exposes occupants to electrocution, fire outbreaks, and electromagnetic radiation, and can cause fatal accidents during maintenance operations.
Expert’s View
An AEDC electrical safety engineer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the development as “a clear violation of safety standards” and urged immediate government intervention.
“The high-tension line in that area carries 33KV power. Any building within that corridor is unsafe. The vibration and electromagnetic field from such lines can cause long-term health hazards, and in extreme cases, electrocution during storms or maintenance. The right of way must be cleared immediately to avoid disaster,” the engineer warned.
Call to Action
Concerned residents are urging AEDC, NEMSA, and the Kogi State Government to carry out a joint inspection and safety audit of the Lokongoma Phase 1 site to determine the extent of encroachment and enforce existing regulations.
They insist that immediate demolition of the illegal fenced structure and prosecution of those involved — including those responsible for diverting the power lines — will serve as a deterrent and restore confidence in government institutions charged with protecting public safety and urban order.
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