FG Denies Planned Demolition of 1,500 Houses in Xhidu Community, Abuja

The Federal Government has refuted claims of a planned demolition of 1,500 houses in the Xhidu community near Lugbe Phase II in Abuja.

Kenneth Chigelu, the Head of the Press and Publicity Unit at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), clarified the government’s position in a recent statement.

Reports had circulated last week that residents of the community had alleged the FHA’s intention to demolish their houses to make way for a housing estate to be constructed by a private developer. Residents voiced their concerns, citing violations of their constitutional rights, disregard for their welfare as citizens, and potential damage to Nigeria’s international image.

However, the FHA has denied responsibility for the proposed demolition. Chigelu explained, “The authority wants to correct the wrong impression created by some land grabbers who have consistently misled some innocent Nigerians by extorting money from them through the sale of government land.”

He further clarified that the FHA had acquired the land from the Federal Capital Territory Administration for housing development, conducting an enumeration exercise and compensating the affected farmers.

The planned removal of developments along the right of way of Ring Road, which serves the area, aims to facilitate the land’s development.

Chigelu emphasized the FHA’s call for individuals with legitimate claims to the land to provide proof of ownership and building approval for documentation.

He expressed surprise at the allegations that the FHA intended to demolish the entire Zhidu community, stating that the authority remains focused on preventing slum development within its estates.

This development follows the recent demolition of 677 houses and partial demolition of 774 houses in Festac Town, Lagos, by the FHA.

The government’s stance reflects its commitment to urban development while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.