AN EVALUATION OF PROBLEMS OF COMPULSORY ACQUISITION AND COMPENSATION IN WUNTI MARKET, BAUCHI METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT The study aimed at evaluating the problems of compulsory land acquisition and compensation in Wunti market Bauchi. The study is guided by three research objectives which are; to examine the legal and institutional frameworks guiding compulsory land acquisition and compensation in Bauchi Metropolis, to evaluate the adequacy, fairness, and timeliness of compensation provided to affected landowners and to identify the major challenges encountered by stakeholders during the compulsory land acquisition process in Bauchi Metropolis. This study seeks to provide answers to the following research questions; What legal and institutional frameworks guide compulsory land acquisition and compensation in Bauchi Metropolis? How adequate, fair, and timely is the compensation provided to affected landowners in Bauchi Metropolis? And what are the major challenges encountered by stakeholders during the compulsory land acquisition process in Bauchi Metropolis? This study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of this study comprises all individuals and households who have been directly affected by the compulsory acquisition of land in Bauchi Metropolis. The study utilized a total sample size of 314 respondents. The purposive sampling technique was employed in selecting the respondents. The study relied exclusively on primary data. The data were obtained directly from respondents through a structured questionnaire. The responses obtained from the questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. The findings of the study show that compulsory acquisition and compensation in Wunti Market were implemented in a manner that fell short of legal, economic, and social expectations. While the process is recognized as a tool for public development, its execution in the study area exhibited weaknesses in communication, fairness, and inclusiveness. Many affected persons were either partially informed or not formally notified before acquisition took place, and a majority were deprived of compensation, contrary to provisions of the Land Use Act of 1978. The socio-economic effects were significant, as livelihoods were disrupted, community ties were strained, and trust in government procedures declined. The study recommended that government authorities should ensure that compensation reflects the true fixed rate of affected properties and is disbursed promptly to prevent hardship and conflict, and affected persons should be duly notified through formal channels before acquisition begins, with clear communication on rights, procedures, and timelines.