FCTA Demolishes 11 Duplexes in Dutse District Over Safety Violations

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has carried out the demolition of 11 duplexes in the Dutse District of Abuja, citing safety violations and non-compliance with approved development regulations. The affected buildings were reportedly constructed beneath high-tension power lines and along a natural water channel, posing significant danger to lives and properties in the area. According to the Director of Development Control, Mr. Muktar Galadima, who supervised the demolition exercise on Thursday, the developers had been served multiple notices by the department to halt the illegal construction. However, they failed to comply, prompting the FCTA to take decisive action to restore order and ensure public safety. Mr. Galadima emphasized that the FCTA’s Development Control Department remains committed to enforcing the Abuja Master Plan, adding that structures erected on restricted or hazardous sites would not be spared, regardless of their level of completion. He also warned developers against encroaching on public utilities and natural corridors such as power lines, road setbacks, and stream channels. The demolition exercise serves as a stern reminder to property developers and landowners within the Federal Capital Territory to adhere strictly to building regulations and obtain necessary approvals before commencing construction. Authorities further noted that the disregard for these laws contributes to flooding, environmental degradation, and potential electrocution hazards, which endanger the lives of residents. Residents of Dutse District were seen expressing mixed reactions to the demolition, with some supporting the government’s move as necessary for urban safety, while others called for more transparent communication between developers and regulatory agencies to prevent future occurrences. The FCTA reiterated that all illegal structures built in violation of approved plans or on reserved land would continue to face enforcement actions to preserve Abuja’s planned infrastructure and environmental integrity.

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. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.