Residents of Lugbe in Abuja are protesting against the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, who is accused of ordering the demolition of houses without any prior notice.
The situation has left many families distraught as they watch their homes being destroyed.
Videos circulating on social media show affected residents lamenting the injustice they have suffered.
“We saw the development control team come here, and before we knew it, they were demolishing houses,” one resident said, visibly upset.
“There was no prior notice. We only heard that the Minister was interested in this area.”
Many residents are questioning the legality of the demolitions.
A victim noted that the demolition came without following the standard procedure of issuing notices.
“Normally, they give us first, second, and even third notices before demolishing houses. This time, none was given,” the resident explained.
“They came here on a Wednesday, marked a few houses, and the next day they arrived with machines to demolish them. We were not informed, and when we tried to ask questions, they fired tear gas at us.”
A Pattern of Demolition in Abuja
This incident is not isolated. Under Wike’s administration, there have been numerous demolitions throughout the federal capital territory.
Residents feel increasingly vulnerable as their homes and businesses are threatened without proper justification.
The FCT Minister’s actions have sparked widespread fear and confusion among residents who have invested their life savings into their properties.
The protests have also raised concerns about corruption within the development control system.
Some residents allege that favoritism and bribery play a significant role in securing land approvals.
Government Response and Community Outcry
In response to the growing unrest, the Wike, has previously ordered the military to take over Sabon Lugbe.
This action followed allegations that property owners were attempting to stop the ongoing demolition exercise.
Wike’s approach has drawn criticism from various quarters, with many calling for an end to the demolitions.
Residents are demanding that the government respect their rights and provide adequate notice before any further actions.
“This is not just about buildings; this is about our lives,” one protester stated.
“We deserve to be treated with dignity. The government must listen to our pleas and stop these demolitions.”
