A coalition of elder statesmen under the Senior Citizens Forum in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has urged the FCT Administration to halt the continuous demolition of properties and ensure a transparent compensation process for Indigenous communities.
Their appeal follows the recent demolition of houses in Gishiri community, which has sparked outrage among residents and concerned stakeholders.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, who represented the group, condemned the demolition, stating that while infrastructure development is essential, it must not come at the expense of people’s homes and livelihoods.
“The government has a moral and legal obligation to engage with affected families and uphold their rights. Ignoring the voices of displaced landowners is an act of impunity we cannot accept,” Dara stated.
The senior citizens emphasized the need for fair and clear compensation, urging the administration to engage all stakeholders—including community leaders and displaced property owners—to ensure a just resolution.
“Compensation should not be shrouded in secrecy. It must be transparent and reflective of the true value of losses suffered by affected individuals,” Dara added.
He further criticized the unchecked power of government officials, insisting that actions impacting communities must be carried out with accountability and due process.
“As a lawyer, Nyesom Wike should understand the implications of such decisions. We demand that those who violate the rule of law be held accountable,” he stressed.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice and urged the FCT administration to adopt a collaborative approach that prioritizes the dignity and well-being of citizens.
