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NASS Summon: FCTA Insist Ongoing Kuje Demolition Targeted At Curbing Insecurity, Illegalities
NASS Summon: FCTA Insist Ongoing Kuje Demolition Targeted At Curbing Insecurity, Illegalities
The Federal Capital Territory Administration ( FCTA) on Thursday insisted that its ongoing demolition of illegal structures in Kuje Area Council was designed to curb insecurity and other criminalities.
This explanation was given by its Officials who appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Area Councils, to respond to a petition by victims of the demolition.
Abuja Metropolitan Management Council ( AMMC) Coordinator, Umar Shaibu said the exercise was undertaken by the administration to quickly respond to identified threats to national security, peace and order.
He noted that a careful procedure was followed, all extant laws adhered to, while the critical stakeholders were also engaged at different times, to ensure that human rights were not bridged.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant on Monitoring, Inspection and Enforcement to FCT Minister, Ikharo Attah disclosed that before the exercise, the administration was worried about the security breaches that had taken place in Kuje.
This breeches, he said could not be tolerated by the administration, as it puts government in a bad light.
Attah explained that the most painful situation was that certain people disregarded warnings and illegally converted reserved railway corridors and public abattoir site to residential homes.
In his response, the Director of Development Control, Muktar Galadima explained that Area Councils had since list the right to allocate lands in FCT after the reforms that were introduced in 2005.
He added that local chiefs also do not have the legal right to transfer any valid title to anyone.
The Representative of Kuje Area Council Chairman, Ishaku Habila, who is also the Chief Surveyor of Kuje Area Council, confirmed that the Area Council had followed the illegal developments, especially at the railway corridors with concern.
He further noted that notices were served at illegal occupants, while some of the buildings were removed, but the land was illegally acquired by others.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Yusuf Tijjani assured that justice would be done to both Government and the victims of the demolition.
He also endorsed the motion raised by the Committee members who raised the alarm and doubts over the integrity of documents submitted by the victims and claimants.
The committee has ordered the FCT Minister to appear before it, produce all relevant documents to the exercise.
Meanwhile, the Counsel to the Victims, Victor Onyekachi, urged the Committee to compel the Minister to do things right by first revoking the land, halting further demolition in the area and also enumerate the houses that were demolished and compensate the victims.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
Lent and Ramadan Tribute: To the Jagaban of Burgu and the Jagoran Arewa
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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