By Residents of Abuja, under the Senior Citizens Forum, have urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to ensure fair and transparent compensation for indigenous communities affected by demolitions.
The demand follows the recent demolition of homes in the Gishiri community, which sparked outrage among residents. Speaking at a press briefing, forum leader Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara condemned the actions, stating that displacing natives without fair compensation is unacceptable.
“While infrastructure development is important, it should not come at the cost of people’s homes and livelihoods. The government has a moral and legal duty to negotiate with affected families,” Dara said.
He emphasized that compensation must be transparent and reflect the true value of losses suffered. “Using force alienates the communities the government claims to serve. If Nigeria seeks progress, it must treat its citizens with dignity,” he added.
Dara warned that ignoring these injustices threatens national unity and called on the administration to engage with displaced residents, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
“We will not be silenced. The government may displace us, but our prayers and voices will remain strong,” he said, urging authorities to adopt democratic structures that uphold justice and fairness.
