The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) has harshly criticised the recent demolition of residential buildings in Karsana, Abuja, describing the operation as a “brutal, inhumane, and state-sponsored assault on the poor.”
The demolition exercise, which took place earlier in the week, saw bulldozers move into parts of the Karsana community, flattening houses, shops, and makeshift shelters. This action displaced hundreds of residents, including women, children, and elderly people. Among the destroyed structures were a traditional leader’s palace and a local church.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the party’s FCT Chairman, Agena Robert Ande, the AAC condemned the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike, accusing it of carrying out the demolition with the support of armed security forces. The party stated that the process was devoid of transparency, lacked human empathy, and failed to adhere to due process.
The party further alleged that the demolition was tainted by corruption and questionable land transactions. According to the AAC, many residents claimed they were not given any prior notice nor were they provided with alternative housing options.
The AAC demanded that the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, immediately initiate compensation measures for those affected. The party insisted that displaced families deserve prompt and adequate compensation and relocation support.
They also pledged to persist in resisting what they termed the “deliberate marginalisation and impoverishment” of vulnerable citizens by government bodies.
“This ruthless act, carried out with armed security operatives present, underscores the lack of compassion and respect for human dignity in our governance structures,” the statement read.
The party described the demolition as highly controversial, stressing the presence of corruption, disregard for laid-down procedures, and neglect of the rights of the poor.
“It is unacceptable that in a country that claims to be democratic and humane, such cruel actions can be carried out against defenseless citizens, including children, the elderly, and women,” the AAC said.
They added: “We strongly denounce the destruction of homes and the forced displacement of law-abiding citizens. We urge the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to act swiftly. He must ensure victims receive fair and timely compensation, reflecting the trauma and loss they have suffered. These individuals must be empowered to rebuild their lives.”
Additionally, the party called for the provision of alternative housing for the displaced residents, noting that it is the government’s duty to protect all citizens and guarantee access to fundamental needs such as shelter.
The AAC also urged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to urgently step in and provide relief support including temporary shelters, food, and other basic supplies to those affected. The party referenced the long-standing presence of the Karsana community, insisting that its historical relevance should not be ignored.
“Any development project must be people-centred, anchored on respect for legal procedures and human dignity. A developmental agenda that sidelines the welfare of the people is empty. The government must ensure that its actions are always guided by fairness and justice,” the statement added.
Concluding the statement, the AAC issued a strong warning to those in power.
“Enough is enough. The rights and wellbeing of ordinary citizens must not be sacrificed for the benefit of the elite or corporate interests. Upholding justice and fairness should be non-negotiable,” the party declared.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Maikalangu, visited the site of the demolition on Saturday to assess the level of damage done to residents’ livelihoods. He claimed that the demolition was carried out by Oceanic Properties and Equilibrium Concept, a private developer.
Maikalangu expressed strong displeasure over the incident, calling it a great injustice against the people. He promised to take legal steps to seek redress for those affected.
He emphasized that the displaced individuals are legitimate, indigenous Gbagyi people of the FCT, and as such, they are fully entitled to compensation for their losses.
The AMAC chairman also appealed to President Bola Tinubu and Minister Nyesom Wike to act swiftly in resolving the crisis.
Furthermore, he urged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to provide immediate resettlement assistance to the affected families, many of whom are now without homes.
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