Lawmakers intervene as residents petition over alleged unlawful demolition in Abuja community
The House of Representatives has ordered the Nigerian Army to immediately suspend ongoing demolition activities in Tungamaje, a community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, pending the review of a petition filed by affected residents.
The directive was issued by the House Committee on Public Petitions following complaints from residents who alleged that the demolitions were carried out without due process, resulting in the destruction of homes and the displacement of families.
According to the petitioners, soldiers had earlier issued quit notices and began demolition exercises in the area, creating fear and uncertainty within the community. The residents subsequently approached the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to intervene and stop further destruction of property.
At the committee’s sitting, lawmakers directed the Nigerian Army to halt all demolition and related enforcement actions in Tungamaje until the petition is fully examined and all parties involved are given a fair hearing.
Sources familiar with the proceedings confirmed that demolition activities had been suspended following the committee’s intervention. The House also fixed January 28, 2026, for a follow-up hearing, during which representatives of the Nigerian Army and the affected community are expected to appear.
The intervention has brought temporary relief to residents while raising renewed concerns over military involvement in civilian land disputes and demolition exercises within Abuja’s fast-growing satellite communities.
