Over 200 families from Nuwalege, a rural community near Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, have been displaced following a recent demolition to expand the Presidential Air Fleet. The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) carried out the demolition at the request of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), leaving residents without homes and seeking compensation from the government.
The affected families were relocated to nearby communities, including Zamani, Sauka, Giri, and Gwagwalada. However, they claim they have not received any compensation from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), the NAF, or the Ministry of Aviation.
A recent visit by The PUNCH correspondent revealed that armed Air Force personnel prevented access to the demolished area. The Director of the FCT Department of Development Control, Muktar Galadima, had previously indicated that discussions were ongoing regarding compensation, but no conclusive details have emerged.
Residents reported no prior notice of the demolition and expressed frustration over the lack of compensation. Wisdom James, a displaced resident, shared that although they contributed funds to seek legal action, no progress has been made. Similarly, Obadiah Tanko highlighted the long-standing presence of indigenous families in the area and their lack of compensation despite the demolitions.
Folashade Olatunde, another displaced resident, detailed her struggle after her home was demolished, noting the separation of her family and financial difficulties in securing new housing. Mrs. Elizabeth Olushola also reported the loss of her home and a block of classrooms without any compensation.
The NAF has directed affected residents to contact the Ministry of Defence or the FCTA for compensation issues, as the NAF does not handle compensation directly. Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, advised contacting the Minister of Aviation or the National Security Adviser for further information.
As the situation unfolds, the lack of clear communication and compensation has exacerbated the plight of the displaced families, raising concerns about the government's handling of resettlement and compensation for affected communities.
