By Olokuta Rofiat
Original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have renewed calls for resettlement, compensation, and justice, decades after being displaced by Abuja’s development.
At a recent town hall meeting in Abuja, community leaders and advocacy groups from areas like Garki, Jabi, Apo, and Zuba decried what they described as systemic neglect and broken promises by successive governments.
“We were here before Abuja became the capital,” said Yunusa Gwary, a youth leader from Garki. “We’re asking for justice, not promises.”
The indigenes lamented failed resettlement efforts and lack of access to land, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Stakeholders urged the federal government to adopt a comprehensive resettlement policy and establish a dedicated commission for indigenous affairs.
Human rights groups warned that continued neglect may trigger long-term tensions in the territory. For many, it is no longer about politics, but dignity and inclusion.
