The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) strongly condemns the recent proposal by Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi to demolish the indigenous settlements of Abuja Original Inhabitants near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Such actions would not only dispossess marginalized communities but also further exacerbate Nigeria’s already dire housing crisis.

Senator Nwebonyi, in a bill presented on May 14, 2025, urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Nyesom Wike, to demolish what he described as “eyesores” along Abuja Airport Road. His justification—that these settlements do not project a positive image of Nigeria to international visitors—displays a blatant disregard for the rights and welfare of citizens who have lived on this land for generations.

CHRICED reminds the Senator and all stakeholders that these communities are home to low-income earners, many of whom are descendants of Abuja’s Original Inhabitants. These settlements are not mere encroachments; they represent ancestral lands and cultural heritage. The residents, already struggling with economic hardships, cannot afford the soaring rents in other parts of the FCT. Instead of receiving support and protection from the government, they continue to face systemic harassment and threats of eviction.

While CHRICED commends the Nigerian Senate for rejecting Senator Nwebonyi’s ill-advised proposal following opposition from lawmakers, we remain concerned about ongoing threats to indigenous settlements. The comments by Senator Adamu Aliero, former FCT Minister, suggesting that the lands in question have been officially allocated for development, further highlight the precarious situation of these communities and the likelihood of continued displacement.

Forced evictions are not only inhumane but also violate constitutional and international legal frameworks protecting the right to adequate housing. Section 43 of the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to acquire and own immovable property anywhere in the country. Additionally, Nigeria, as a signatory to the United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, is obligated to safeguard housing rights.
CHRICED urges the Nigerian Senate to move beyond rejecting Senator Nwebonyi’s proposal and instead pass a binding resolution directing the FCT Administration to immediately halt all planned demolitions of informal settlements. A thorough legal and human rights review must be conducted to ensure that any urban development plans align with principles of fairness, justice, and inclusivity.

We call on the FCT Administration to engage meaningfully with community leaders, civil society organizations, and urban planning experts to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions. Rather than prioritizing cosmetic urban beautification, authorities must integrate informal settlements into the broader urban framework while protecting the dignity and rights of vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, CHRICED urges the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that any future relocation efforts adhere strictly to due process, international human rights standards, and principles of social justice, including prior notification, fair compensation, and adequate alternative housing provisions.

To ensure accountability, CHRICED calls upon the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) to intervene and protect Abuja’s Original Inhabitants from the recurring threat of forced eviction under the guise of development. We also urge Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the international community, and relevant stakeholders to speak out against the violation of human rights and work collectively to defend vulnerable communities.

CHRICED remains steadfast in its commitment to human rights, social justice, and inclusive governance. We call on all stakeholders—government agencies, lawmakers, civil society, and international partners—to prioritize policies that respect the dignity of all Nigerians and foster a society where fundamental rights are upheld.

Signed:

Comrade Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi
Executive Director
Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED)