Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) Resettlement and Compensation Department has reiterated its commitment to due process, legal compliance and strategic planning in executing resettlement and compensation mandates in Abuja.
The director of the Resettlement and Compensation Department, Nasir Sulaiman, stated this recently when he met with the Helpline Social Support Initiative team which visited his office.
He clarified that anyone who has resided in the FCT for more than 10 years is considered an Original Inhabitant (OI) under the current policy definitions.
He highlighted specific areas where compensation efforts have taken place, notably Gishiri and Wasa. He acknowledged significant financial challenges facing the department, particularly regarding relocation and compensation of affected persons, and said these constraints have impacted the pace and scope of resettlement activities across designated sites.
However, the director noted that resistance from some original inhabitants (OIs) to relocate remains a serious concern. This resistance, he said, not only hinders resettlement planning but also poses risks to their livelihoods, particularly where agricultural land is involved because of the reduction in available land for farming.
Sulaiman emphasised the issue of land transactions conducted outside government oversight. He warned that individuals who purchase land from original inhabitants without proper authorisation and documentation through the government risk forfeiting their rights during compensation or resettlement processes.
The Helpline team, led by Arome Onoja, requested permission to submit the compiled list of aggrieved Original Inhabitants who claimed they have neither been compensated nor resettled so that the Department can take appropriate measures.
Also, the Helpline Team assured that they would follow the suggestions and advice given by Tpl. Sulaiman during future engagements, especially as regards the process and procedures for resettlement and compensation.
