The management of Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara, is facing mounting criticism following the issuance of sudden eviction notices to some staff members alleged to be affiliated with the All-Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State.
The affected staff include Dr. Lawal Umar Maradun, Malam Jamilu Hassan and one Malam Abdulhakim Yusuf who were directed to vacate their residences at the Rima River Basin Development Authority Staff Quarters, popularly known as Bakalori Estate, without prior joint approval from relevant authorities.
One of those affected is said to be a close associate of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, who reportedly spent about ₦20 million renovating the house he occupies.
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The Bakalori Estate Community Association (BECA) has rejected the Polytechnic’s action, describing it as unilateral, unjust and contrary to the established agreement governing the estate.
In a protest letter dated September 22, 2025, and addressed to the Registrar of the Polytechnic, the Association insisted that the institution lacked the authority to carry out evictions without mutual consent between the Rima Basin Authority and the Polytechnic management, as stipulated in their joint agreement.
The Association’s Secretary, T/Wada Samaila Abubakar, who signed the letter, said the notices violated Article 16 of the joint RIMA/POLY committee guidelines, which clearly states that allocation and revocation of houses must be handled exclusively by the joint committee.
BECA also accused the Polytechnic of selective enforcement, noting that those affected were fully compliant with rent payments, while others who defaulted were left untouched, raising what it described as “serious concerns of miscarriage of justice.”
The Association further appealed to the Polytechnic management to halt the planned eviction and ensure due process, fairness, and peaceful coexistence within the community.
Members warned that failure to reverse the action may force them to seek legal redress.
The Polytechnic management has yet to respond publicly to the protest.