ABUJA, NIGERIA — Reports have emerged of ongoing demolitions at the River Park Estate in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), allegedly carried out in direct violation of a subsisting court order.
The Incident
According to statements from the scene, officials from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) forcefully breached the estate’s perimeter fence to begin demolition activities. The operation was reportedly met with resistance from residents, leading to a violent confrontation.
Homeowners claim they were assaulted, beaten, and subjected to tear gas by officials during the exercise.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
The core of the controversy lies in a reported restraining order issued by a court of law, which explicitly forbids the Honourable Minister of the FCT and his agents from carrying out any demolition or interference with the property.
Critics and residents are raising "grave constitutional questions" regarding the actions of the FCDA, suggesting that:
* The actions represent a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
* The demolition may be driven by personal or external interests rather than due process.
* The Minister’s office appears to be acting as if it is above the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Public Outcry
The situation has sparked a heated debate regarding the protection of Nigerian citizens and their legally acquired properties. Stakeholders are calling for an immediate halt to the exercise, emphasizing that the Rule of Law must prevail and that no individual, regardless of their office, should be exempt from judicial oversight.
As of the time of this report, the FCT Ministry has not released an official statement regarding the alleged violation of the court order or the reports of violence against homeowners.
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