Peter Usanga
Over a hundred resident in the Nyanya axis of the Federal Capital Territory have been subjected to finding shelter in makeshift structures due to an alleged unannounced demolition exercise carried out by operatives of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
The demolition which was carried out in the early hours of Saturday 21st August, had residents scrambling for the safety of their lives and properties while others were seen pleading for time and extension with the demolition agents.
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According to Musa Bello, one of the residents whose house was demolished, disclose to our correspondent that the FCDA never served them the appropriate notice prior to the demolition. Describing the action as unfair, unjust and a crime against humanity, Bello called on well-meaning individuals to plead their course as they are being victimized because they may not have the social and economic power to seek legal aid.
Another resident who spoke on the condition of anonymity, actually claimed to have been served a prior notice, but the time granted was not enough to seek an alternative shelter as the time was not even up to a week of grace.
One of the demolition agents who identfied himself as “OP” stated that those structures were illegally erected against the architectural Master plan of the area, he further disclose that more demolition is likely to take place as most of this structures are erected along possible road ways.
All efforts to reach the authorities of the FCDA by our correspondent was not forthcoming.
Most of the stranded resident have however, resorted to makeshift house still around the vacinity for shelter.