By Sarah NEGEDU
Decades of marginalisation, forced evictions, and near-zero political representation have pushed Abuja’s indigenous communities to demand immediate action from President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, as the Federal Capital Territory marks its 50th anniversary.
The call was made at a press briefing organised by the FCT Senior Citizens Forum to reflect on some of the gains and challenges of establishment of Abuja as the nation’s capital 50 years after.
Coordinator of the forum, Elder Danjuma Dara, who spoke on behalf of Abuja’s indigenous communities, reflected on the historical significance of 3rd February 1976, when then-Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, announced the relocation of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja, a move intended to foster national unity, progress, and accessibility.
He said, “50 years ago, a new national capital, envisioned as a symbol of unity for all Nigerians, was born on our land. Today, Abuja stands as a vibrant, bustling symbol of Nigeria’s political and administrative life.
“The creation of Abuja brought rapid urbanization, but it also brought significant hardship for us. Our people have faced relentless marginalisation, displacement from our ancestral lands spanning 8,000 square kilometres, and continuous human rights violations, including forced evictions and near-zero political representation.
“These injustices have left deep scars on our communities that called this land home long before the capital’s establishment.”
The FCT, carved from the lands of several indigenous communities, has witnessed decades of development that often excluded the original settlers, costing them livelihoods, heritage, and rights.
Elder Dara stressed that the 50th anniversary should be more than a celebration, but signal a new era of inclusion.
“We are calling on President Tinubu and Minister Wike to be the architects of a new, inclusive chapter. They must introduce policies that carry us along in all aspects of governance. We demand the opportunity to benefit from governance, just like citizens in every other state of Nigeria. It is time to carry the indigenous people along in all aspects of governance and ensure we benefit from the development of our land.
“This forum is demanding that the authorities ensure fair compensation and dignified resettlement for those displaced by development projects. Protect the cultural heritage and land rights of the original inhabitants. Promote inclusive governance that guarantees indigenous communities a voice in decisions affecting their lives and futures, and uphold human rights and prevent further violations in the name of progress,” he said.
The communities also called for constitutional and administrative reforms to guarantee equitable representation, political access, and socio-economic opportunities.
“As Abuja turns 50, the message from we the original inhabitants is clear: the promise of a unifying capital must include justice and prosperity for all who reside within it, especially those whose ancestry is rooted in its soil.
“As we honour the past, we must look to a just future. Let us work together, government, civil society, and all residents, to build an FCT that is truly inclusive, just, and prosperous for everyone, starting with those who first called it home,” Elder Dara concluded.
