.Allege intimidation, injustices by FCTA
By Paul Effiong, Abuja
Indigenous people of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, have opposed the long-standing relocation policy adopted by the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, alleging that it has brought untold hardship to them as their landed property are usually taken from them.
Instead, they advocated for an inclusive urban renewal and integration approach, one that fosters acceptance, comfort and provides humane and equitable alternatives.
They disclosed this during a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, yesterday.
Declaring the hearing open, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas urged stakeholders to freely express their views, noting that such contributions would assist lawmakers in drafting an informed legislation not just for the indegenes, but for all the people in Abuja.
The speaker, who was represented by Joe Onuakalusi described the public hearing as a critical step towards promoting national unity and the brotherhood embedded in Nigeria’s constitution.
He noted that the issue of integrating FCT indigenes has been a recurring debate for successive administrations, emphasizing that the matter is not just relevant to Abuja, but has broader implications for justice and equity across the country.
Chairman of the House Committee on Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Fredrick Agbedi, explained that the hearing was prompted by a motion earlier moved on the need to explore alternative approach to resettling or integrating both indigenous and non-indigenous residents of the FCT.
“The FCT is a symbol of unity and a representation of our national ideals. It was built for all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious or regional backgrounds. However, with growth and diversity come complex challenges—including the displacement of indigenous communities, the unclear status of non-indigenous residents and the tension between customary land rights and modern urban planning.”
Speaker Abbas therefore charged the committee to carefully document all contributions made during the hearing, assuring that the 10th House, under his leadership, is committed to developing legislative solutions that reflect the collective aspirations of the people.
In his remarks, the Director of Resettlement and Compensation, FCDA, TPL Nasiru Suleiman, requested additional time for the agency to present its memorandum. The committee granted a two-week extension to enable the FCDA submit its presentation.
Also speaking at the hearing, the Sepeyi of Garki, Chief Usman Nga Kupi—who represented the Ona of Abaji—lamented the sacrifices made by FCT natives, including the loss of ancestral lands and property in the name of national development.
Bala Iya, representing Kpaduma community, decried what he described as the longstanding pattern of injustice and discriminatory practices against indigenous residents. He said farmlands had been seized without compensation, disrupting not only livelihoods, but the people’s spiritual and cultural ties to their land.
“The resettlement process must include allocation of reasonably sized land, with proper title documents and financial support for building development as approved by Development Control,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Original Inhabitants Development Association of Abuja called for a constitutional amendment to secure equal rights for FCT natives. Represented by Giwa Bamaiyi, the group’s President, Pastor Danladi Jeji, proposed the establishment of a National Commission for Indigenous Peoples to address the systemic challenges faced by original inhabitants.
