Abuja Demolitions: Soldiers Clash With Development Control Officials

Armed soldiers reportedly attacked development control officials in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja, during an attempt to demolish illegal structures, escalating tensions in the area.

In Sabon Lugbe, Abuja, development control officials faced a shocking ordeal when armed soldiers, allegedly acting on orders from a high-ranking military officer, disrupted their operations. The officials were at Plot 416 to demolish a fence tied to illegal construction, reportedly owned by the Major General in question.

One of the officials recounted:

“We were removing the fence when the Major General was informed. He immediately sent two soldiers to assess the situation.”

Upon arrival, the soldiers, in a vehicle with covered license plates, blocked the exit to prevent the team from leaving. One soldier, identified as Private Jamilu, reportedly confronted the caterpillar operator, pointed a rifle at him, and demanded he stop working. The operator complied but was then assaulted by the soldiers, who tore his clothes and physically restrained him.

Things escalated further when the soldier fired at all four tires of the caterpillar, rendering it immobile. Private Jamilu then called for reinforcement, leading to the arrival of additional soldiers under the Major General’s command.

The soldiers reportedly detained the caterpillar operator, the site officer, and six other officials, taking them to the Major General’s residence. According to witnesses, the detainees were physically assaulted.

In addition, three Hilux vehicles belonging to the enforcement team were taken to the Major General’s house. The tires of other vehicles were shot at to prevent them from being moved.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Trademore Police Station later arrived on the scene but was allegedly rebuffed by the Major General, who refused to cooperate.