Residents of Zhidu Village, located off Airport Road in Abuja, took to the streets today to protest the impending demolition of their homes by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). The FHA had previously announced its intention to demolish over 1500 homes in Zhidu Village and its environs. The protesting residents argue that this decision lacks provisions for compensation or resettlement.
Expressing their concerns, the residents claim that the FHA’s unilateral action violates constitutional rights, neglects their welfare as citizens, and reflects poorly on Nigeria’s global image. They are urging the FHA to cease its demolition plans and engage in fair negotiations for compensation and resettlement, as initially pledged.
Apostle Prosper E. Eromosele, Chairman of Zhidu All Property Owners Association, spoke on behalf of the residents, calling on President Bola Tinubu to compel the FHA to fulfill its promise of compensation.
He emphasized that the planned displacement of thousands of people and the demolition of already inhabited houses without proper resettlement or compensation constitutes a severe violation of human rights. The residents argue that such actions not only breach the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees fair compensation for those displaced by the government, but are also morally wrong.
Eromosele highlighted the vulnerability of the affected residents, many of whom are among the poorest in Nigerian society, particularly in the FCT. He stressed that the FHA’s actions would exacerbate their struggles and push them further into poverty and desperation.
The residents are demanding that the FHA immediately halt its plans and engage in sincere negotiations to ensure proper compensation or resettlement, adhering to the commitments made at the outset of the process. They call on the FHA to act compassionately and respect the rights of the affected people, asserting that the government agency must take corrective measures to address the situation.