In the bustling Kurudu axis of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, tensions are rising as residents face growing threats from land grabbers.
Members of the Concerned FCT Indigenes Initiative, Kurudu axis chapter, are calling on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to urgently step in and prevent the illegal actions of an estate developer.
The issue revolves around land grabbing, unlawful demolitions of homes, and the destruction of perimeter fences, which have left many families fearful for their future.
The land in question, allocated to the Kurudu residents by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) authority, was originally part of a relocation effort from Nyanya. Known as the “Kurudu Relocation Layout,” this area was approved by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), with plots typically spanning around 1000sqm.
The residents, many of whom are indigenous to the region, now face the grim reality of their properties being targeted for demolition without cause or warning.
Comrade Matthew Shekwo, spokesperson for the Concerned FCT Indigenes Initiative, spoke out about the situation, highlighting that similar incidents have occurred in neighboring areas like Jikwoyi and Kpeyegi, with land grabbing and forced demolitions becoming a disturbing trend. Shekwo expressed deep concern that the same fate is now befalling the Kurudu Relocation Layout.
On January 27, a group of individuals, escorted by armed security personnel, began demolishing homes and businesses in the area. This forced action has created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety, particularly among the traders at the nearby Kurudu Timber Shed Market, who now worry about losing their livelihoods.
With frustration mounting and no resolution in sight, Shekwo emphasized that the group will not remain silent. If swift intervention from the FCT Minister is not forthcoming, they are prepared to lead a protest, seeking justice for the victims of this unlawful action. They are demanding an end to the demolitions and the protection of their homes from further encroachment.
As tensions escalate, the residents of Kurudu remain hopeful that their plea for intervention will be heard, and that decisive action will be taken to put an end to the land grabbing crisis that threatens their future.
