By Patrick Idowu
Indigenous groups in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have strongly criticised Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi (Ebonyi North) over his recent call for the demolition of residential settlements near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Speaking during a Senate session on May 21, Nwaebonyi described the airport corridor settlements as an “eyesore” that tarnishes Nigeria’s image before international visitors.
His comment sparked backlash from FCT residents and native groups who said the statement was insensitive and elitist.
Dalhatu Ezekiel, a former Public Complaints Commissioner, condemned the senator’s remarks, saying they reflect a growing detachment of some public officials from the realities of ordinary Nigerians.
He accused Nwaebonyi of prioritising aesthetics over people’s livelihoods and urged him to apologise publicly.
“This shows how those in government often forget the struggles of the poor once they get into power. It’s undemocratic and demeaning,” Ezekiel said.
Also reacting, Yunusa Yusuf, Chairman of the FCT Indigenous People Association, said rather than propose demolition, the senator should have advocated for upgrading the settlements.
“We feel insulted. He should apologise or risk being booed by FCT natives at public events,” Yusuf said.
David Isaac, president of the Abuja Original Inhabitants Youths and Empowerment Organisation, alleged that the demolition agenda could be tied to private development interests.
He called for compensation and resettlement of affected residents in line with global best practices.
“There are people living near airports in other countries. If we’re truly an eyesore, upgrade our communities, don’t destroy them,” Isaac added.
The controversy has reignited debates around forced evictions, urban renewal, and the rights of Abuja’s original inhabitants.
