Amnesty International Nigeria urges Wike to halt Maitama demolition

Amnesty International Nigeria called on Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to halt planned demolition activities around a utility corridor in Maitama, Abuja. The organization expressed concerns regarding the allocation of Plot 5334 in Cadastral Zone A06 for private real estate development, citing risks to public safety, flooding, and critical drainage infrastructure.

Isa Sanusi, Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, warned that proceeding with the demolition, as indicated by a notice issued on October 9, 2026, could expose neighboring properties and public infrastructure to significant risks. The corridor reportedly contains underground stormwater and sewage drainage infrastructure built by Julius Berger Plc between 2012 and 2014.

Ongoing litigation and an alternative dispute resolution process regarding the plot's development are still in progress, and the Federal Capital Development Authority has confirmed the site is reserved for infrastructure. Amnesty International Nigeria emphasized the need to resolve these issues before any demolition occurs to prevent irreversible damage.