The Indigenous people of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have opposed the relocation policy being implemented by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), describing it as a violation of their fundamental human rights and a breach of the rule of law.
Instead, they called for an inclusive urban renewal and integration strategy—one that promotes acceptance, comfort, and offers humane and equitable alternatives.
Their demands were voiced during a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, held on Wednesday at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, urged stakeholders to express their views freely, stating that such contributions would aid lawmakers in coming up with informed legislation.
Represented by Hon. Joe Oke Onuakalusi, Abbas described the initiative as a vital step toward promoting national unity and upholding the spirit of brotherhood enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution and national anthem.
He noted that the issue of integrating FCT indigenes had remained a recurring topic across successive administrations, adding that it reflects a broader national concern for justice and equity.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Fredrick Agbedi, explained that the hearing followed an earlier motion calling for alternative approaches to resettling or integrating both indigenous and non-indigenous residents of the FCT.
“The FCT is a symbol of unity and a representation of our national ideals. It was built for all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or regional backgrounds,” Agbedi stated. “However, with growth and diversity come complex challenges—including the displacement of indigenous communities, the uncertain status of non-indigenous residents, and the conflict between customary land rights and modern urban planning.”
During the hearing, Director of Resettlement and Compensation at the FCDA, TPL Nasiru Suleiman, requested additional time for the agency to submit its memorandum.
The committee granted a two-week extension to enable the FCDA to make its presentation.
Also speaking, the Sepeyi of Garki, Chief Usman Nga Kupi—representing the Ona of Abaji—lamented the sacrifices made by FCT natives, including the loss of ancestral lands and property in the name of national development.
Hon. Bala Iya, representing the Kpaduma community, condemned what he described as a long history of injustice and discrimination against indigenous residents.
He cited the seizure of farmlands without compensation, which he said had disrupted both livelihoods and the community’s spiritual and cultural ties to the land.
“The resettlement process must include the allocation of reasonably sized land, accompanied by proper title documents and financial support for building development as approved by Development Control,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, the Original Inhabitant Development Association of Abuja has called for a constitutional amendment to secure equal rights for FCT natives.
Represented by Giwa Bamaiyi, the group’s President, Pastor Danladi Jeji, advocated the creation of a National Commission for Indigenous Peoples to address the systemic challenges faced by original inhabitants.
