By Sarah NEGEDU
Residents of Kpaduma community in Asokoro Extension of the Federal Capital Territory have appealed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to resettle affected families within their ancestral land, rather than relocating them to unfamiliar locations.
The appeal follows concerns raised over road construction activities in the area, which the residents fear may lead to the displacement of indigenous families.
While commending the minister’s development strides, leaders in the community maintained that resettlement must be carried out in a manner that respects the people”s cultural and historical ties to the land.
Secretary of the Kpaduma community and Madaki of Kpaduma 2, Simon Baba-Yerimah, said the people were not opposed to development but urged the minister to ensure that those impacted are properly integrated.
“We embrace development, but we appeal that our people affected by this road construction should be integrated or resettled within our ancestral home. We should not be neglected or denied our fundamental rights,” he said.
He disclosed that the community had already identified land within its own domain that could accommodate displaced residents and called on the minister to honour his earlier commitment.
“Our minister is a man of his words. He assured us that those affected will be resettled within their ancestral land, not displaced. We trust him because he is a God-fearing leader who understands our plight.”
Asked whether the road project might lead to the complete displacement of the community, Baba-Yerimah dismissed such fears, saying, “We are not afraid. We want development. Twenty years ago, we were not like this. The road is for our benefit, and we trust the minister’s leadership.”
On concerns raised over markings on buildings in the area, he explained that the process was for data gathering and not an indication of imminent demolition.
“The exercise is a demographic assessment and valuation process, not demolition. The minister wants to know how many people will be affected so they can be properly integrated or compensated.”
He confirmed that the community is actively engaged with the FCT administration and has submitted relevant reports as part of a joint committee.
Despite their reservations, Baba-Yerimah praised Wike’s performance in office, saying, “He is the best FCT minister so far. In less than a year, he has transformed Abuja. We believe he will also do right by us.”
Also speaking, the spokesperson for the Kpaduma community, Hon. Bala Iyah, called for the intervention of the National Assembly and other political leaders to ensure the minister receives an accurate account of the community’s situation.
“We cannot be strangers in our own homes. We urge our representatives to sit with the minister and address our demands. The FCTA administration is not telling the minister the truth about our plight,” he said.
He warned that ignoring the concerns of the indigenous population could have long-term consequences.
“They are sitting on a time bomb. If they do the needful now, these issues will not escalate. Our children and future generations deserve justice.”
Iyah reiterated the community’s demands, including integration rather than displacement, resettlement within their ancestral land, proper valuation of affected properties, and fair compensation. He called on the National Assembly to mediate and urged FCTA officials to demonstrate transparency and place the interests of indigenous people above personal gain.
The residents remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed and that the ongoing development will proceed without compromising their heritage.
