The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has demolished more than 30 sub‑structures at the River Park Estate in Abuja, citing violations of planning regulations. Director of Development Control Mukhtar Galadima explained that the developers continued construction even after their lease agreements were withdrawn and after they were advised to return undeveloped plots to the FCTA.
A ministerial committee chaired by Salman Dako submitted a report to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike recommending that undeveloped plots be revoked because the Development Lease Agreements (DLAs) had expired and been breached. The committee also advised that holders of previous “customary” titles who had developed their plots in compliance with applicable regulations be allowed to retain those titles.
According to Galadima, the FCTA received reports of developers rapidly building on vacant plots, prompting the agency to issue a stop‑work notice. When the developers ignored the notice, the FCTA removed the structures, including over 30 excavated foundations. Galadima stressed that any new illegal developments would be removed and that further attempts would not be tolerated.
The demolition has affected some residents, such as Pastor Chimdi Obwe of the adjoining Ciarudi area, who claims he was denied access to his home and lost part of his property after the exit route was blocked and his fence demolished. The FCTA says its actions are intended to reassert administrative control over the affected plots in line with the ministerial committee’s recommendations and warns that prosecution may follow if developers continue to ignore directives. The episode underscores the need for developers to comply with planning regulations and the importance of strong administrative oversight in maintaining order in the territory.
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