The Kogi State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to victims affected by the demolition of structures at Idojie, popularly known as Sambell area, in Okene Local Government Area, while reaffirming its commitment to compensating landowners impacted by the proposed airport and Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone projects.
The demolition, carried out on January 15, 2026, was part of the government’s security strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts and restore peace in the community. However, authorities later acknowledged that the exercise also affected legitimate traders operating in the area.
Presenting compensation cheques to the affected shop owners in Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Director-General of the Kogi State Bureau of Lands, Kehinde Augustine Salihu-Otaru, said the gesture was aimed at helping the victims rebuild their businesses and livelihoods.
Salihu-Otaru explained that following a review of the demolition exercise, the government identified traders whose lawful businesses were inadvertently affected and approved compensation for them.
He said the Bureau of Lands verified 23 shop occupants as eligible beneficiaries, adding that the compensation was shared on a 70:30 ratio to cover both the demolished structures and goods lost during the exercise.
According to him, Governor Ododo’s administration remains committed to listening to genuine concerns from citizens and ensuring that those affected by government actions receive fair treatment.
He urged the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the compensation and continue to conduct their businesses within the law.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Alhaji Aliyu Asuku Bello Sambell expressed appreciation to the governor for responding to their plight.
He recalled that the government had earlier provided an initial relief of N350,000 to cushion the hardship faced by the affected traders while awaiting the final compensation.
“We are grateful to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his compassion and commitment to addressing our concerns. This support will help us rebuild our businesses and return to normal life,” he said.
Salihu-Otaru also disclosed that compensation for landowners affected by the acquisition of land for the proposed airport at Zariagi in Lokoja and the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone is currently being processed.
He noted that while the required framework for the payments has been completed, the large number of beneficiaries has contributed to the delay.
“We are currently handling three categories of compensation: those affected by the airport project, the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone, and the Idojie-Okene demolition exercise, which has now been settled,” he said.
The Bureau of Lands boss commended Governor Ododo for providing the necessary support to ensure the compensation process is carried out smoothly and transparently, stressing that the administration is determined to protect the interests of citizens while pursuing development projects across the state.
