FCT Indigenous Groups Demand Compensation Following Kuchibedna Demolitions

Indigenous residents and community leaders in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called on Minister Nyesom Wike to intervene after the recent demolition of homes in Kuchibedna, Kafe District, citing the lack of prior notice and compensation as a threat to both residents and the cultural heritage of the territory.
At a press briefing in Abuja, Elder Danjuma Tanko Dara, Coordinator of the FCT Senior Citizens Forum, condemned the demolitions as indiscriminate. He noted that hundreds of residents have been rendered homeless, stressing that FCT indigenes are being marginalised despite their historical ties to the region.

“We call on Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike to ensure all affected residents of Kuchibedna are fairly compensated,” Dara stated. He further demanded that similar consideration be extended to residents of Gishiri and Dagbalo communities affected by previous demolitions.

Concerns Over Heritage and Governance

Community leaders highlighted that demolitions frequently occur with little or no prior notification, undermining indigenous rights and eroding cultural heritage. Dara emphasised that proper democratic structures must be strengthened to safeguard the welfare and identity of the FCT’s original inhabitants.

The coalition of indigenous groups urged the FCT administration to implement development initiatives in a manner that protects both urban growth and the rights of native residents. They cautioned that failure to address compensation concerns could escalate tensions and disrupt community cohesion.

Conclusion

The calls for intervention underscore a broader challenge facing the FCT: reconciling infrastructure development with the protection of indigenous communities. The Federal Government is expected to respond to these demands to ensure both compliance with urban planning regulations and the fair treatment of original inhabitants.