Land Compensation: FCT Indigenes seek Federal Government’s intervention through dialogue

The Indigenous group of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), operating under the aegis of the Abuja Original Inhabitants Youths and Empowerment Organisation (AOIYEO), has called on the Federal Government to immediately initiate dialogue over the long-standing issue of land compensation affecting all 858 communities in the capital territory.

This call was contained in a statement signed by the President of AOIYEO, Commandant David Isaac, and made available to journalists.

According to Isaac, “The demand for governmental dialogue with indigenous communities regarding the occupation of their ancestral lands has grown more pressing amidst ongoing discussions about equitable compensation and recognition of their rights.”

Historical Injustice and Marginalisation

Isaac highlighted that many advocacy groups and indigenous leaders have, at various forums, urged the government to invite representatives of these communities to the negotiation table. This, they argue, would address historical grievances and explore appropriate compensation mechanisms for the land used in establishing Abuja.

He emphasised that indigenous peoples in Abuja have long expressed concerns about their displacement and the loss of land with deep cultural and historical significance. Since Abuja’s establishment as Nigeria’s capital in 1991, many communities were relocated without adequate compensation, leaving them feeling dispossessed and marginalised. This situation, Isaac noted, continues to affect their livelihoods and cultural identities.

“We must acknowledge the historical injustices faced by these communities and work towards genuine reconciliation. Engaging them in dialogue is not just a moral imperative but a crucial step towards healing and understanding,” Isaac stated.

Growing Advocacy for Indigenous Rights

Recent investigations by AOIYEO have revealed a growing recognition of the need to address these issues at all levels of government. Human rights organisations have also underscored the importance of including indigenous perspectives in policymaking, emphasising that this is essential for social cohesion and national unity.

“It is vital that the government takes a proactive approach to rectify past wrongs. Intentional and genuine dialogue can pave the way for establishing trust and creating effective channels for compensation,” Isaac reiterated.

AOIYEO’s demand for urgent engagement underscores a broader need for social justice and the protection of indigenous rights in Nigeria. Isaac specifically called on the Minister of the FCT, Barr Nyesom Wike, to leverage his position to facilitate a meeting between the president and the indigenous people of the FCT.

“We understand that while Minister Wike is not the leader of the Ogoni people, he recently used his influence to facilitate a meeting between them and the president. We urge him to use his power and influence as FCT Minister to bring about a similar meeting for the indigenous people of the FCT,” Isaac charged.

Legal and Cultural Concerns

Isaac further stated that many issues affecting the indigenous people of the FCT are legal matters, which he believes could be resolved amicably if tabled before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“With the experience and ability of our president, we believe that all 13 cases currently in different courts can be resolved. Therefore, we earnestly seek dialogue with him,” he said.

Meanwhile, Isaac decried what he described as an erosion of established cultural practices under Minister Wike’s administration. He criticised the minister for allegedly denying the indigenous people of the FCT their traditional visits to the president during significant celebrations such as New Year, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Christmas.

“This is the first time in the history of this country that the indigenous people of the FCT have been denied the opportunity to celebrate these events with the president and vice president. Instead, Minister Wike took his family to Lagos to greet the president. This is an insult to our sensibilities because these visits were the only avenue for us to meet the president and vice president one-on-one. We urge the minister to respect this culture,” Isaac stated.

Call for Gender Inclusion

Isaac also criticised Wike’s governance style, alleging it has created a disconnect between the administration and indigenous women. He lamented the lack of involvement of the minister’s wife in governance, noting that this has denied indigenous women a sense of belonging.

“We call on the minister to retrace his steps and give our women a sense of inclusion in this government,” Isaac appealed.

The AOIYEO reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice for the indigenous people of the FCT, emphasising that dialogue remains the most viable path to reconciliation and progress.

Niyi Lawal