The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, over alleged irregularities in compensation payments to displaced residents of Gishiri community.
The minister threatened to remove Dauda from office if any fraudulent activities were uncovered.
Controversy Over Compensation for Demolished Homes
The dispute arises from the construction of Arterial Road N16, which runs through Gishiri in Katampe District. The project, which has been delayed due to compensation and resettlement disputes, has affected 455 residents whose homes were demolished.
At a stakeholders’ meeting held on Monday in Abuja, Wike expressed anger over reports that some affected residents were offered as little as ₦72,000 as compensation for their properties.
“Go and pay people their money—the exact amount I approved. I am hearing too many things. If you are involved in any deal and I find out, you will regret it,” Wike warned Dauda. “Give people their rightful compensation. If I hear about this again, you will have to explain yourself, and I will remove you.”
Compensation Should Be Based on Legal Ownership
The minister clarified that compensation should be strictly based on legal land ownership, not on ethnicity or any other considerations.
“The government does not pay compensation based on where you come from. It is based on land ownership documents. If a road project affects your property, you are entitled to fair compensation. No one should be denied their rights because they are non-indigenes.”
Community Accuses FCDA of Neglect and Underpayment
Residents of Gishiri have voiced strong opposition to the manner in which the compensation process has been handled.
The youth leader of Gishiri, Umaru Godwin, accused Engr. Dauda of disregarding Wike’s directives and failing to properly relocate affected residents.
He further alleged that the FCDA proposed a water-logged site as a resettlement area, which he claimed was unsuitable for construction.
Another resident, Princess Juliet Jonah, expressed outrage over the ₦72,000 compensation per demolished building, calling it grossly inadequate.
“People are protesting because the amount offered is far below what is expected. How can someone whose home was demolished be given just ₦72,000?”
Wike’s Tough Stance on Accountability
The minister’s strong response highlights his commitment to transparency and fairness in the ongoing demolition and compensation process. He has vowed to hold officials accountable and ensure that all affected residents receive their full entitlements without any form of exploitation.
The controversy surrounding Gishiri’s demolition and compensation remains a key issue, with residents demanding fair treatment and proper resettlement. Meanwhile, all eyes are on the FCDA as stakeholders await corrective actions following Wike’s directive.
Key Takeaways:
- Wike threatens to sack Engr. Dauda over alleged fraud in compensation payments.
- 455 residents affected by the Arterial Road N16 project.
- Some residents allegedly offered as little as ₦72,000 per building.
- Community leaders accuse FCDA of providing an unsuitable relocation site.
- Wike insists that compensation should be based on legal ownership, not ethnicity.
