Abuja's 50th Anniversary Highlights Indigenous Struggles

The article discusses the 50th anniversary of Abuja as Nigeria's capital, established in January 1976 under the military regime of General Murtala Ramat Muhammed. A panel led by Justice Akinola Aguda had identified Abuja as the suitable location for the new Federal Capital Territory (FCT) among 33 options.

However, the establishment of Abuja has led to significant displacement of indigenous communities, with their traditional homes and economic activities disrupted by new infrastructural developments. The article notes that the indigenous populations, including the Gbagyi, Bassa, Gwandara, and Koro ethnic groups, have been marginalized politically and economically, with no indigenous person appointed as FCT minister or elected to significant positions in the last 50 years.

The anniversary was marked by a poorly attended symposium, reflecting the ongoing struggles of these communities, which have been overshadowed by the city's rapid development and the influx of settlers.