Gishiri Compensation Irregularities: Wike Threatens To Sack FCDA ES

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda to retrace his steps or prepare to get sacked.

The FCT Minister gave the warning following alleged irregularities in the compensation process for residents affected by the ongoing road construction at Gishiri village in Katampe District.

The controversy followed the demolition of 455 structures meant to pave way for the road project in the area.

Initially, FCDA officials had estimated a compensation package of N655 million, but Wike directed an increase to N1.3 billion, citing prevailing economic conditions.

Youth leader of the Gishiri community, Adamu Godwin during a stakeholders’ meeting accused FCDA officials of relocating victims to an unsuitable, waterlogged area and offering compensation not sufficient to secure alternative housing.

Godwin further alleged that Dauda had altered the Minister’s relocation directives, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the displaced residents.

The allegations sparked the Minister’s outrage, particularly upon learning that the FCDA’s Compensation and Resettlement Department was reportedly offering victims less than the approved amount.

Wike condemned the action describing it as a betrayal of trust, as Dauda, an indigene of Abuja, was expected to act in the best interest of the affected community.

Expressing his displeasure, Wike issued a direct ultimatum to Dauda, warning him: “pay them what is due for them or I will sack you. You are from Abuja, why doing all these? All those affected should be compensated, nothing like indigene and non-indigene, I would not accept that” Wike warned.

Also, another resident, Juliet Jonah, alleged that some houses were valued as low as N72,000, an amount grossly inadequate to securing alternative accommodation.

Responding to the allegations in a telephone conversation, the Acting Executive Secretary, FCDA, Richard Dauda, explained that the allegations were untrue.

He, however, said the initial place the Minister directed to be revoked for compensation will not be enough to cater for over 400 people, hence the need to secure additional approval, which he said has been secured.

Dauda, who further stated that papers have been given to some affected persons and the survey processes for the additional plots ongoing, pointed out that it is solely the duty of URP and Land Administration Department to revoke and allocate land.

The FCT Minister’s intervention and clear warning against any form of exploitation or exclusion depicts his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all affected residents receive fair compensation.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji