The Gombe State Government has commenced the disbursement of N229.66 million compensation to 468 people in Jekadafari area of Gombe metropolis, whose property had to give way for road construction.

Alhaji Shehu Durbi, Chairman of the Compensation Committee, told journalists in Gombe on Friday that the committee had started payment of compensation to land owners on Thursday.

Durbi said that seven roads would be constructed in the area, adding that those whose property had to give way, had been given one month notice to relocate from the area.

The chairman, who was the immediate-past Commissioner for Lands, said the committee started payment as soon as cash was made available by government.

He urged inhabitants of the area to cooperate with the government to ensure a hitch-free payment of those entitled to compensation.

Also speaking, Alhaji Abdullahi Doma, the District Head of Jekadafari ward, said that land owners were satisfied with arrangements made for compensation.

The district head said he was a member of the committee constituted by government to pay the compensation.

“So far, we have not received any complaints on the decision of government directing affected persons to vacate their places within one month.”

Similarly, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abubakar, a Senior District Head of Gombe, commended the government for the developmental project and timely payment of compensation.

He then advised affected persons to utilise the money given to them judiciously, especially those living in family houses. (NAN)

•Photo shows Gov. Dankwanbo.