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Abdul Fonti Kabia, the Communications Specialist at the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, has made it clear that the government will not compensate landowners affected by the recent demolitions at Black Johnson.
Speaking on a TV program, Fonti explained that only landowners who have legal documentation proving ownership will be eligible for compensation.
According to Fonti, the majority of the structures demolished were not in place when the government acquired the land back in 2021. He stated that compensation is only possible for people who can present legal documents, and without such documentation, there is no reason to provide any compensation.
Fonti explained that while the land is owned by the government, individuals may lease or own it under specific conditions, but they must present the appropriate documents to back up their claims. He pointed out that the Ministry has not issued any building permits or land documents for the last four years, and without legal proof of ownership, there’s no justification for compensation.
He also mentioned that when the Ministry first looked into the Black Johnson area, it was mostly undeveloped, with no visible construction. However, over time, unauthorized buildings have been put up, which complicates the issue of compensation for these new structures.
Fonti stressed that people seeking compensation must show they have the right legal documents for their property. Only after proper claims are made would discussions on compensation begin.
The Ministry of Fisheries, overseeing the construction of a fishing harbour in the area, also confirmed that the demolition was necessary for the harbour project and that all legal procedures had been followed.
With these statements, the government has firmly ruled out compensation for landowners without legal proof of ownership.
