By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
Danlami Audi, the Esu of Kado in the Abuja Municipal Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) says he has no hand in the allegations of masterminding the recent demolition in his community, explaining that the demolition was carried out by the Development Control unit of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) without his knowledge or consent.
The demolition exercise, which targeted structures deemed to be shanties, was reportedly based on a security report from the office of the Minister. Despite the village head’s efforts to intervene, the demolition proceeded, with the chairman of the AMAC, Hon Christopher Zakki, intervening to calm the situation.
Esu Danlami Audi denied collecting money from shop owners or traders in Kado, stating that the claim that he benefited from the demolition was unfounded. He emphasized that as the traditional ruler, he couldn’t have stopped the government from carrying out its duties but expressed disappointment that his efforts to stop the demolition were not appreciated.
The village head highlighted the issue of resettlement, stating that the original inhabitants of Kado, including his people, were yet to be resettled. He emphasized that as the original inhabitants who have lived in the area for hundreds of years, they should be properly resettled before any further demolitions.
This incident is part of a larger issue of demolitions in the FCT, with the Senate recently ordering the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt all ongoing property demolitions in Abuja. The Senate’s decision came after concerns were raised about the demolition exercise deviating from due process and causing untold hardships to affected individuals ¹.
The FCT Administration has been carrying out demolitions across the territory, citing the need to restore the master plan of Abuja and address security concerns. However, the affected individuals have expressed concerns about the lack of adequate compensation and resettlement.
