Residents of God’s Own Estate in Wumba, Abuja, were left reeling from the shocking demolition of their homes and forced evictions that unfolded in a mere three-hour window on Wednesday.
The abrupt and traumatic event has been described by many as an “illegal enforcement” of a court order, raising significant concerns about due process and the treatment of the affected families.
The chaotic scene escalated when over 200 police officers and court officials descended upon the neighborhood, beginning the demolition of numerous homes, including a community building that served as an orphanage. The heavy-handed approach employed by the authorities left many residents feeling vulnerable and powerless.
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“I lost over N5.5 million that I had just converted to pounds and naira. My property, which I had invested heavily in for my hospitality business, was destroyed. I had no prior knowledge of any court proceedings against me,” lamented Illikannu Gentle, a resident who has been left without his source of livelihood.
Another resident, Blessing Oziwo, who was renting a property in the estate, shared a harrowing experience. While she was at work, her landlady frantically informed her that intruders had invaded her apartment. “When I rushed home, I was met with the sight of more than 50 young men at my door. They forcibly entered my apartment, tossed my belongings outside, and to my dismay, I later discovered that my phones, wigs, and laptop were missing,” she recounted, visibly shaken by the experience.
The demolition has left countless residents homeless and traumatized, a sentiment echoed by many. “We woke up to find police, thugs, and individuals claiming to represent the court breaking into our homes without notice,” shared another affected resident, highlighting the lack of respect for their families and properties.
As of now, the authorities in the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal High Court have remained silent, offering no responses or assistance to the distraught residents who are grappling with the aftermath of this sudden upheaval in their lives.
The community has been left questioning the legality of the actions taken against them and seeking clarity on their rights and the protection they are entitled to under the law.
