ABUJA. – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has intensified its fight against land grabbing with the demolition of illegal structures in Sabon Lugbe, part of the Phase Five district of the Federal Capital City (FCC).
Speaking during the enforcement exercise, Tpl. Murktar Galadima, Director of the Department of Development Control, FCTA, emphasized the administration’s commitment to eliminating illegal developments in the FCT.
“We are here today at Sabon Lugbe Southwest area, which is part of the Phase Five district of the Federal Capital City (FCC), and recall that some time back, we warned that we were going to act against land grabbers. Today’s exercise is a continuation of that warning,” Galadima said.
“For any person to buy any property in Abuja, please ensure that it is a rightly titled property with an approved development plan. Failing to do so, you could fall into the hands of these land grabbers, and please, don’t blame the FCTA.”
The enforcement began with the demolition of about 10 structures an initial step in what Galadima described as a “full swing” operation set to continue. He noted that close to 50 illegal structures, including duplexes and bungalows, will be demolished as part of the ongoing crackdown.
Galadima warned that areas such as Idu Train Station, Gosa, Kyami, Apo Tarfi, and Lugbe have become hotbeds for land grabbing, and the FCTA would not tolerate illegal developments. “Today we are in Lugbe, and we will continue, as this is a continuous exercise. Illegal developments will not be entertained.”
In response to individuals who were deceived into believing they could be integrated into Phase Five of the FCC Masterplan, Galadima was firm: “There is nothing like integration. Illegality is illegality, and we will continue to remove these illegal structures.”
Regarding the upcoming Phase Five of the FCC and its integration into the Abuja Masterplan, Galadima reassured that work is ongoing. “I think the FCT Urban and Regional Planning is working hard on that.”
As the FCTA ramps up its efforts to reclaim illegally occupied land and restore adherence to the Abuja Masterplan, the public is urged to verify all property purchases and avoid falling victim to land grabbers. The warning is clear: illegal developments in the FCT will be met with swift action.
