the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has begun demolishing structures in the Sabon Lugbe area of Abuja. The demolition, led by the Department of Development Control, targets over 50 illegally constructed duplexes and bungalows built by land grabbers without proper approvals.
On Thursday, the Director of the Department, Mukhtar Galadima, oversaw the initial phase of the exercise, which saw 10 buildings in various stages of completion brought down. Mr. Galadima explained that the southwest area of Sabon Lugbe falls under Phase 5 of the Federal Capital City (FCC), where any development must adhere to the Abuja Master Plan.
A Warning to Land Grabbers
The FCTA had previously issued warnings to land grabbers and prospective buyers, urging them to avoid purchasing property without verifying its legal status. “We’ve warned that illegal developments won’t be tolerated in Abuja, and this exercise is part of our ongoing effort to enforce the law,” said Galadima. He reiterated that the demolition would continue in full force, with more structures slated for removal.
Galadima also identified other hotspots where illegal land developments are rampant, including Idu Train Station, now part of Gosa and Kyami, as well as the Apo Tarfi area and Lugbe. These areas have been notorious for land grabbing activities, prompting the FCTA to take action.
Protecting Abuja’s Master Plan
The demolition at Sabon Lugbe is part of a broader effort to protect Abuja’s carefully designed urban framework. The FCTA has been vigilant in ensuring that the city’s expansion remains within the guidelines of the Abuja Master Plan, which dictates how land in the Federal Capital Territory is allocated and developed.
Galadima emphasized that the FCTA will not condone any illegal developments and urged the public to exercise caution when buying property. “Before purchasing any land or property in Abuja, people must ensure that it has proper documentation and an approved development plan. Failure to do so could result in losing the property,” he warned.
Ongoing Demolition Efforts
Thursday’s demolition marks just the beginning, with the FCTA planning to return in the coming days to finish the job. “Today, we started with 10 structures, but we’ll be back tomorrow in full swing. Our goal is to ensure that all illegal structures—close to 50 in total—are removed,” Galadima added.
He also addressed the misconception that some illegal developments might be integrated into the Abuja Master Plan’s Phase 5. “There is no such thing as integration. Illegality is illegality, and we will continue to remove these structures,” Galadima stated firmly.
Moving Forward
As the FCTA ramps up its enforcement, the public is reminded that this is an ongoing effort. Illegal developments will not be tolerated, particularly in areas like Lugbe, Idu Train Station, Gosa, and Kyami. The FCTA remains committed to upholding Abuja’s Master Plan and ensuring that land use across the city complies with the law.
Due diligence is key for those seeking to purchase property in the Federal Capital Territory. Buyers are encouraged to verify that any property they intend to acquire is properly titled and adheres to approved development guidelines to avoid becoming victims of land grabbers.
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