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Court Awards Compensation to Community Over Zungeru Dam

The Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project, located in Niger State, has been a focal point of development in Nigeria’s energy sector. Designed to meet 10% of the nation’s domestic energy needs, the project’s implementation has faced scrutiny due to its impact on surrounding communities.

Published

1 month ago

March 25, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Court Awards Compensation to Community Over Zungeru Dam

A landmark ruling by the Niger State High Court in Minna has granted N1.1 trillion in compensation to the Samboro community in Rafi Local Government Area. The compensation follows their enduring hardship caused by the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project in the region.

In suit no: NSHC/6/2023, filed by Abubakar Usman and 2,844 others against the federal government, Justice Mohammed Mohammed presided over the case, acknowledging the community’s suffering due to land encroachment and pollution, which violated national laws.

Justice Mohammed emphasized the community’s status as original landowners, highlighting constitutional and legal provisions protecting their rights. He noted their forced displacement, ongoing flooding, and erosion, attributing these issues to the Zungeru Dam Project’s construction.

Consequently, the court ordered the federal government to compensate the plaintiffs with an unprecedented sum of N1.1 trillion. This amount accounts for the destruction of farmlands and houses, economic sabotage, and the overall devastation of livelihood resources in the Samboro Community.

Mohammed Ndarani, the plaintiffs’ lawyer, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating that justice had been served. He emphasized the judiciary’s crucial role in safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities and urged others to seek legal redress for grievances.

The Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project, situated in Niger State, is pivotal to Nigeria’s energy sector, aiming to fulfil 10% of the nation’s domestic energy requirements. However, its implementation has sparked legal battles as affected communities demand fair compensation for land use and environmental impacts.

This ruling sets a precedent for future infrastructure projects, underscoring the importance of equitable compensation and adherence to legal frameworks to mitigate adverse effects on local communities. As Nigeria strives for sustainable development, balancing progress with social justice remains paramount.

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