Abuja, Nigeria – March 26, 2025
Residents of Tunga Maje, a community in Abuja, are protesting against what they describe as a forceful land grab by the Nigerian Army, following reports of a planned demolition set for Friday. The affected residents, many of whom have lived in the area for years, say they were given little to no notice before being asked to vacate their homes.
Eyewitnesses report that military personnel have already been deployed to the area, escalating tensions between the community and security forces. Protesters, including women and children, have vowed to resist any attempt to evict them without due process, calling on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and human rights organizations to intervene.
Speaking on the matter, a community leader accused the army of acting outside the law, stating, “We are not against development, but you cannot just wake up one day and take our land without due process. Where do they expect us to go?”
While the Nigerian Army has yet to officially respond to the allegations, sources indicate that the land in question has been under dispute for years, with the military claiming ownership for security and operational purposes.
As tensions rise ahead of Friday’s planned demolition, residents are pleading for government intervention to prevent what could turn into a major humanitarian crisis. Advocacy groups have also condemned the alleged forceful takeover, calling for transparency, dialogue, and respect for citizens’ rights to shelter and due process.
With emotions running high, all eyes are now on the authorities to see whether they will proceed with the demolition or seek a peaceful resolution to the standoff.
