Indigenous Group Seeks Presidential Panel on Impact of FCT Policies, Presents Charter of Demands

The Abuja Original Inhabitants Youths Empowerment Organisation (AOIYEO) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently constitute an independent Presidential panel to investigate the impact of Federal Government policies on the indigenous people of the Abuja since the creation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 1976.

The appeal was made during a town hall meeting jointly organised by AOIYEO and the FCT Stakeholders Assembly in Bwari Area Council of the FCT. The event, themed “Strengthening FCT Indigenous Community Voices in Key Governance Processes and Review of the FCT Charter of Demands,” brought together traditional rulers, youth groups, women leaders and other community stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, AOIYEO President, Ambassador Isaac David, said the organisation was compelled to seek presidential intervention over what he described as decades of marginalisation, displacement and exclusion of the original inhabitants of the FCT.

According to him, while Abuja has grown into a symbol of national unity and progress since the capital was relocated from Lagos in 1976, the indigenous communities have continued to face challenges, including alleged forced demolitions without adequate compensation, limited representation in governance processes and exclusion from the benefits of development.

He urged the President to establish a high-level panel to: Assess all Federal Government policies and programmes implemented since the creation of the FCT, with particular focus on their impact on indigenous communities;
Identify achievements where government interventions have improved the lives of the natives; Investigate shortcomings, including issues surrounding displacement and compensation; Engage critical stakeholders such as traditional rulers, youth and women groups, and community leaders to provide firsthand recommendations; and Produce a comprehensive ministerial and presidential report outlining actionable steps toward inclusivity and sustainable development for the original inhabitants.

Ambassador David expressed optimism that a transparent investigation would provide a clear roadmap for equity and sustainable development in the FCT.

“We stand ready to work with the Federal Government, relevant ministries and all stakeholders to make this vision a reality. Let us honour the sacrifices of our forefathers and ensure that the FCT becomes a true home for the original inhabitants and all Nigerians,” he said.

In his remarks, President of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, Dr. Aliyu Daniel Kwali, also urged Abuja natives and residents to participate actively in the democratic process by exercising their civic rights in the forthcoming FCT elections.