By Sarah NEGEDU
Indigenous people of Abuja have been assured of their place in the Federal Capital Territory, as the FCT Administration maintains that the government was not out to displace them.
This assurance was given by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Monday, at a meeting he held with traditional chiefs and representatives of Kpaduma and Guzape communities over the ongoing road construction project and the concerns raised regarding the evacuation of affected villagers.
The minister convened meeting to address the growing tension surrounding the continued presence of residents in areas marked for major road projects.
Wike, who assured the affected communities of their proper resettlement and adequate compensation, stressed that the government was committed to justice and fairness.
“We are not here to displace anyone unjustly,” the Minister stated. “This is about building a better Abuja for all. We will ensure your people are properly compensated and given legal documents for their new homes”.
He however, clarified that compensation would be paid only for structures along the road corridor and not the entire community. He also directed that the compensation package should be doubled to ensure fairness.
“I have told the Director of Resettlement to go and make a valuation. But the rate you people are using is too small. Increase their rate. If they are earning N50, give them N100”, the Minister stressed.
While acknowledging the deep-rooted attachment the communities have to their ancestral lands, the minister however appealed for understanding, noting that government’s development efforts must sometimes involve difficult decisions.
He reiterated that every affected individual would be duly compensated and that Right of Occupancy, R of Os, for new resettlement areas would be provided without delay, as was the case with the Gishiri community in Katampe district.
The traditional leaders led by the Sapeyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga Kupi, expressed their appreciation to the FCT Minister for his transparency and willingness to engage them directly. They unanimously agreed to cooperate with the evacuation and resettlement process.
“We are grateful for the Honourable Minister’s assurance and the respect shown to our people. We will support this effort in the interest of peace and progress”, the Sapeyi remarked.
