Abuja, Nigeria
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, and the Director of the FCT Development Control Department, Galadima Muktar, over allegations of granting permission for a property development that contravenes the Abuja building code.
The decision to summon the officials follows a petition filed against the FCDA, raising concerns that the property in question failed to meet the necessary regulatory standards for construction within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Committee is seeking clarifications on the approval process and whether due diligence was followed before the permit was issued.
A source close to the Committee revealed that lawmakers are particularly worried about the increasing trend of unauthorized or improperly regulated buildings within the capital city. They argue that such developments pose safety risks to residents and undermine urban planning efforts aimed at maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of Abuja.
The summoned officials are expected to appear before the Committee in the coming days to provide explanations and documents related to the controversial approval. Lawmakers are also set to question them on broader issues concerning adherence to the Abuja Master Plan and measures being taken to curb violations of development regulations.
A representative from the petitioning body, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized that the move is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in urban development within the FCT. “We cannot allow a situation where building approvals are given in violation of established laws. The safety and orderliness of Abuja depend on strict adherence to these regulations,” the source said.
This is not the first time the FCDA has come under scrutiny for issues related to building code enforcement. In recent years, the agency has faced criticism for alleged selective approval processes and weak enforcement mechanisms.
As the hearing approaches, all eyes will be on the FCDA officials to provide satisfactory responses to the Committee’s inquiries. The outcome of the proceedings may set a precedent for how future violations of building regulations are handled in the FCT.
