Abuja Senior Citizens Demand End To Impunity In FCT Demolitions
A coalition of elder statesmen under the auspices of the Senior Citizens Forum in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued a powerful call to the FCT administration to end the incessant demolition of properties.
They urged it to accurately define and transparently administer the meaning of compensation for the Indigenous communities of the FCT.
This appeal comes in the wake of the recent, forceful demolition of houses in the Gishiri community, an event that has sparked outrage and concern among residents and advocates alike.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, the concerned senior citizens said they decided to condemn the actions taken against the Gishiri community.
Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, who spoke on behalf of the group, said, “While infrastructure development, such as road construction, is undoubtedly important, it should never come at the cost of people’s homes and lives.
“The government has a moral and legal obligation to negotiate with affected families and respect their rights. Any attempt to disregard the voices and rights of the landowners is an act of impunity that we cannot tolerate.
“The administration must gather all stakeholders, displaced owners, community leaders, and movers, around the table to ensure that compensation is administered fairly and satisfactorily’’.
While highlighting the necessity for transparency, Dara asserted, “Compensation must not be shrouded in mystery. It must be clear, just, and reflective of the true value of what has been lost.
“Using force is not just bad governance; it will alienate the very communities that the administration claims to serve. Nigeria cannot be ready for the blessings of progress if it continues to treat its citizens with disdain.”
He also called attention to the critical need for checks and balances within government structures, saying that it is alarming that any minister can embark on such destructive actions without accountability.
“As a lawyer, Nyesom Wike should understand the implications of his decisions. We demand that persons who act with such disregard for the law be relieved of their positions. The rule of law must prevail; our democratic structures must be upheld,” he said.
He said that the collective plea from the respected senior citizens is not just a condemnation of past actions but a warning to current and future authorities.
Dara insisted on the implementation of full democratic structures that promote justice, fairness, and engagement.
“We must speak up for those who cannot. We hope that our collective wisdom will guide the FCT administration toward a path of collaboration, respect, and honour for the dignity of all citizens,” he said.
Abuja Senior Citizens Demand End To Impunity In FCT Demolitions is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
