Demolition Of Gishiri, Other FCT Original Inhabitants Homes: Way Forward
Demolition Of Gishiri, Other FCT Original Inhabitants Homes: Way Forward
The ongoing demolition of homes and communities belonging to the Original Inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the Federal Capital Territory Administration due to Urban development is a complex issue involving historical land rights, urban development, and displacement. A sustainable and just solution should balance the rights of the indigenous people with the need for urban expansion and development. Here are some of the proactive solutions rather than reactive solutions:
*1. Legal Recognition and Compensation:* The government should officially recognise the land rights of the Original Inhabitants and provide fair compensation for any demolished properties. The Land Use Act has stipulated the requirements for revocation of rights of occupancy and adequate compensation thereof. The land ownership rights for indigenous communities must be preserved in the FCT. Robust’s legal framework in line with the current economic realities should be established to ensure fairness and adequate compensation of the FCT Indigenous people including preventing arbitrary evictions.
*2. Resettlement with Dignity:* If relocation is unavoidable, affected communities should be provided with alternative housing and land that is equal in value to what they lost. Resettlement plans should include basic infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and employment opportunities.
*3. Inclusive Urban Planning:* The government should engage traditional leaders, community representatives, and civil society organizations in city planning to ensure their voices are heard. Development projects should integrate indigenous communities rather than arbitrary displacement of the people.
*4. Economic Empowerment and Development:* Special economic programs should be created to empower indigenous people, including job opportunities, business grants, and skills acquisition programs. Government policies should prioritize land leasing agreements that allow indigenous communities to benefit from urban development instead of being excluded.
*5. Judicial and Political Advocacy:* The Original Inhabitants should challenge unlawful demolitions in court and seek legal remedies. Indigenous people seem to lack stronger political representation in FCT governance structures to influence policies affecting their communities.
*6. International and Civil Society Intervention:* Indigenous people should seek support from human rights organizations, the African Union, and the United Nations to put pressure on the government for fair treatment. NGOs and activists should create awareness about the injustices faced by these communities.
Conclusively, proactive measures should be adopted instead of reactive measures (medicine after death). A long-term solution requires a combination of legal, political, and socio-economic strategies to ensure that development in Abuja is inclusive and does not erase the identity and rights of its original inhabitants.
Signed:
*The Concerned FCT Indigenous People*
