By Michael Onjewu, Abuja
Residents of Katampe Extension in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have raised concerns over the illegal activities of land speculators and the indiscriminate use of high-caliber explosives in their community.
Situated on the eastern fringe of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Katampe Extension is bordered by the Katampe Hills to the north and the Abuja-Kubwa Expressway to the south. Known for its unique rock formations and ridges, the district has become a target for land grabbers seeking to profit from desperate buyers.
The residents noted that natural waterways and drainage channels, essential for managing stormwater, have been blocked or allocated to developers, posing a significant risk to the area’s ecosystem and potentially destabilizing the Lower Usuma Dam.
They also allege that developers have been blasting rocks to create illegal connections between Katampe Extension and neighboring districts in Bwari, such as Usuma and Jikoko. He noted that developers falsely advertise lands in Usuma and environs as part of Katampe Extension, thereby putting unsuspecting buyers at risk.
“This reckless blasting is not just an environmental issue; it’s a matter of safety for our community,” said Wole Atolagbe, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Katampe Extension Residents Association (KERA), during a tour of the community with journalists.
Atolagbe warned that the ongoing development is increasing residents’ vulnerability to kidnapping, as the previously secluded hills are being transformed into accessible routes for criminals.
Also speaking, KERA Vice President, Dr Austin Maho, argued that the recent earth tremors in the area is linked to the frequent use of explosives by developers.
“The noise from the explosions is deafening, and our buildings shake to their foundations. We are increasingly uncertain about the integrity of our homes,” Dr. Maho said.
He lamented that a former Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister had previously halted the activities of illegal developers, but these operations have resumed covertly, threatening the integrity of the area.
“If these activities are not addressed, we could face catastrophic flooding of Usuma Dam, similar to what has occurred in Maiduguri and other parts of the country,” the vice president warned.
Muhammed Gimba, president of the residents’ association, appealed to the government for intervention to protect their homes and environment from ongoing destruction.
“We urge Minister Nyesom Wike to restore the district to its original master plan and protect the community from further harm. We also call on the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives Committee on the FCT, to investigate the current situation in Katampe Extension.
“We need help. It is time for the government to act decisively and safeguard the people of Katampe Extension from these illegal activities,” Gimba added.
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