Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has condemned the reported plan by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, to demolish structures around Amnesty International Nigeria’s national office in Abuja and convert a green area into a private estate.
Adeyanju called on the FCT Administration to suspend the proposed demolitions and clarify the circumstances surrounding the allocation of Plot 5334 to Hammari Energy Limited.
He questioned the rationale for converting a public utility corridor in Maitama, reportedly designed to address flooding risks, into a private estate, warning that such a move could undermine critical drainage infrastructure and threaten the safety of neighbouring properties.
The lawyer said the proposed demolition of structures along the corridor, including those around Amnesty International Nigeria’s national office, required urgent clarification from the FCT authorities.
He urged Wike and other relevant officials to explain the basis for the land allocation, particularly in view of concerns over the corridor’s drainage function and the potential consequences of altering its existing use.
Adeyanju also called for an independent technical assessment and a transparent review of the allocation, insisting that the issues surrounding the site must be resolved before any demolition or development proceeds.
He warned that decisions involving public infrastructure should not compromise flood management, residents’ safety or the integrity of essential utility corridors.
The lawyer further stressed the need to consider ongoing dispute-resolution processes before taking irreversible action on the disputed land.
He maintained that the FCT Administration must prioritise public safety, accountability and the protection of critical infrastructure in its development decisions.
The controversy raises questions about the land allocation, the reported drainage function of the corridor and the proposed development, which the FCT authorities would need to address through a transparent review.
