Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang has warned individuals and groups involved in the illegal sale and acquisition of government properties, both within and outside the state to desist from such acts.
He has also directed those in illegal possession of such assets to surrender them immediately to avoid severe government action.
Mutfwang in a statement through his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, said the government is determined to recover what belongs to the citizenry.
He announced plans to inaugurate a proactive task force to conduct thorough investigations aimed at recovering all government properties sold without due process.
According to him, “Let me declare that very soon, we will establish a task force to recover all government properties currently in illegal possession or occupation across the state and beyond.
“Let me read the riot act: anyone in possession of government property acquired illegally should surrender it now before we come for them.
“Equally, anyone involved in the unauthorised sale of government property will be uncovered and severely punished. It is only a matter of time before we catch up with such individuals,” he warned.
On those in possession of fraudulent Certificates of Occupancy, C of O, the governor assured that they would not escape justice, emphasizing that no one, regardless of their status, would be exempted.
“We will investigate and deal decisively with those holding illegal C of Os. A grace period will be given for voluntary surrender. However, if we have to come after you, the resources spent on the recovery process will not go in vain, you will bear the full cost”, he maintained.
The governor further disclosed plans to reorganize and strengthen the Jos Metropolitan Development Board, JMDB, to ensure it fulfils its statutory role in maintaining orderliness in building construction across Plateau State.
He further explained that the aforementioned decisive action aligns with his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the restoration of order in the state’s property sector.
