The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revealed its intentions on Wednesday to take down approximately 500 unauthorized buildings and structures in Dutsen-Garki, Apo District, Abuja.
Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, the Director of the Department of Development Control within the FCTA, disclosed this during a meeting held in Abuja with community leaders.
Speaking on behalf of Galadima, Mr. Hassan Ogbole, the Deputy Director of Monitoring and Enforcement, clarified that all properties and constructions acquired or erected without proper authorization would be subject to demolition.
He expressed concern over the trend of individuals purchasing lands from native residents and subsequently developing the properties without obtaining the necessary approvals from the FCTA.
“This conduct is not acceptable to the FCT Administration,” he remarked.
Ogbole outlined that the engagement with the local community was consistent with the FCTA’s reform agenda, aiming to involve native residents in discussions before initiating any demolition activities, thus avoiding unforeseen upheaval.
He stated that the meeting also served to inform the affected community leaders and the general public about the impending demolition initiative.
The decision was made to collaborate with the community leaders on identifying and marking illegally constructed structures by non-indigenous individuals over a two-week period. Subsequent to this marking phase, the actual demolition will take place.
The director advised residents against engaging with locals for land acquisition and instead urged them to approach the proper authorities to avoid property losses.
He further cautioned the local population against selling land or expanding property without obtaining approval from the FCTA.
Mr. Kak Bello, Deputy Director of the Monitoring and Enforcement division at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, emphasized that beyond unauthorized structures, some individuals also erected buildings on waterways, contributing to environmental problems.
He underscored the importance of adhering to the law and refraining from illegal construction, particularly on floodplains.
A representative of the community, Mr. Danjuma Fanus, pledged full cooperation from the community leaders to ensure the successful execution of the demolition exercise.
However, Fanus appealed to the FCTA to exercise consideration during the process, aiming to prevent any native residents from becoming unintended victims.
“We are committed to cooperating with the authorities, but we also seek your understanding,” he said.
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