During a visit to the affected area on Saturday, Maikalangu expressed outrage at the scale of the demolition and the suffering inflicted on the indigenous Gbagyi people, many of whom have now been rendered homeless without warning or compensation.

Standing amidst the rubble of destroyed homes, churches, and even the community chief’s palace, the AMAC chairman vowed to challenge the demolition in court, affirming that both the community and the council would pursue legal redress. He maintained that the residents were the rightful landowners and deserved full compensation before any relocation or development could be justified.

Calling on President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for immediate intervention, Maikalangu also urged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to assist in the resettlement of the displaced families. He decried the inhumane approach taken by the developers and questioned the logic of evicting people without alternative shelter or prior consultation. “You cannot treat human beings like this in their own ancestral land,” he said.

The AMAC chairman further declared that no construction would be permitted on the disputed land until the victims had been adequately compensated and relocated, insisting that due process must be followed and justice served. His call was echoed by community youth leader, Dikko Jezhi, who narrated how residents returned from work only to find their homes demolished and personal belongings lost. Jezhi lamented the disrespect shown to the indigenous people, emphasizing that they would continue to resist oppression peacefully. “This is our father’s land,” he said firmly, underscoring the community’s resolve to fight for their rights through lawful means.

The post Tension in Karsana: AMAC Chairman Threatens Legal Battle Over Unlawful Demolitions appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

According to Obi, the incident began when his brother, just returning from Port Harcourt, found that a team had arrived unannounced and was already tearing down his company’s property. Security guards on site barred him from entering and gave no clear explanation  only stating that demolition had begun days earlier.

After receiving the frantic call early Tuesday morning, Obi flew from Abuja to Lagos and went straight to the site. Even he, a former state governor and public figure, was initially blocked by security personnel.

“I calmly explained that this was a registered company’s property, owned by my brother for over 10 years,” Obi said.
“They claimed they had a court judgment, but when I asked to see it, it turned out to be against ‘unknown persons’ and ‘squatters.’

He added there was no demolition order, no written permit, and no formal notice served to the rightful owners.

Obi described the scene as chaotic and suspicious. Workers operating the excavators refused to name who sent them, saying they were only told to demolish the property. He gave them his phone number and requested to speak directly with whoever issued the command — but no one responded.

“I stood there for four hours  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  and still, no call, no explanation. Even the contractor claimed he didn’t know who gave the order.”

Eventually, two men arrived and said the parties involved should go to the police station. But even they had no demolition order, making the entire process seem like what Obi called pure impunity.

He questioned how a country could function when private property could be destroyed without notice, court service, or official clearance.

Obi used the moment to reflect on a conversation he had days earlier with a businessman who operates in Ghana, Senegal, and Benin Republic  but not in Nigeria.

“When I asked him why, his answer was piercing: ‘Nigeria is lawless.’ That’s the truth investors see.”

The Labour Party chieftain voiced concern for everyday Nigerians, asking:

“If this kind of injustice can happen to someone with a registered company, what hope is there for a struggling trader or small business owner?

He also pointed out how human rights indicators in Nigeria have continued to drop, reflecting a dangerous slide into impunity and insecurity.

Despite the ordeal, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to a better Nigeria — one where:

• Rule of law is respected

• Property rights are protected

• Vulnerable citizens are safe

• Human dignity is upheld

“I know what I’ve faced just for contesting an election I had a right to enter. But that only makes me fight harder for a country where justice works  for everyone.”

The post Peter Obi Decries Coordinated Lawlessness After Brother’s Property Demolished in Lagos appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The ultimatum was delivered on Thursday by Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), who led a team of enforcement officials to the site. The developer, according to Obuah, had been previously instructed to cease work and produce legal documentation but failed to comply.

“When we invited the developer to present legal documents, it became clear there was no approval, no allocation—nothing,” Obuah stated. “I ordered him to stop construction, but he refused. The only language left now is demolition.”

Obuah warned that if the developer fails to report to his office by 10 a.m. the following day, demolition will commence immediately.

The illegal structure, situated near a major drainage channel, poses a serious flood risk, he said. “This is a waterway. Allowing construction here endangers lives and property. We have to act fast to prevent disaster.”

The AMMC Coordinator emphasized the FCTA’s unwavering resolve to uphold Abuja’s Master Plan and enforce environmental and urban development regulations. He confirmed that similar operations are underway in other parts of the city, targeting encroachments on green areas, floodplains, and public infrastructure corridors.

“This is not an isolated case,” he said. “Wherever illegal structures exist, we will remove them. Our mission is to restore order and ensure Abuja remains a planned, livable city.”

Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, Director of the Department of Development Control, reiterated the administration’s zero-tolerance policy. He revealed that another developer in the Wumba District had also been issued a 48-hour notice for failing to present valid title documents.

“We gave them a chance to comply, but instead, they continued building. This leaves us with no alternative but to enforce the law,” Galadima said.

He affirmed that citywide enforcement will be intensified: “We are reclaiming every space—green zones, waterways, and road corridors. If you build without approval, your structure will come down. There will be no impunity.”

Both officials assured residents that the FCTA would spare no effort in ensuring public safety and preserving the capital’s integrity through lawful, sustainable urban development.

The post FCTA Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Building Clampdown, Illegal Land-Grabbing Activities appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

In Wood Island Estate, Ishawo, Ikorodu, many families are still picking up the pieces. Months ago, their homes were destroyed without warning. The attack came suddenly, leaving the community in chaos and fear.

Suspected land grabbers entered the estate with armed escorts. They flattened homes, claiming they now owned the land. Many buildings had stood for decades, built with years of hard work and personal sacrifice.

No Proof of Ownership

Residents were stunned. The invaders showed no legal documents to support their claims. Instead, they told homeowners they no longer had rights to their own properties.

Some victims were even asked to pay money to enter their land. These actions happened without the approval of the original landowners—the Arugbo Odo/Aboki Lawal family—who sold the plots years ago.

Community Leader Speaks Out

Adekunle Adeiga, chairman of the Community Development Association, voiced his frustration. “They said there was a court order, but showed nothing. Their lawyer even admitted they don’t have a judgment yet. They just believe they’ll win.”

He added that over 50 houses, both completed and in progress, were destroyed in the raid.

Police Step In

Eniran Orisan, a coordinator for the original landowning family, confirmed that two arrests have been made. He thanked police officials in Abuja for their support.

This action followed reports that the person leading the demolition had boasted about controlling local law enforcement.

Stories of Victims

Sanni Gerard, a retired civil servant, shared his painful experience. “I bought land in 2014. One day, I was told someone had damaged it. When I arrived, I was forced to pay N3,000 just to look at it. Even after showing my receipt, they said it was no longer valid.”

Margaret Animashaun told a similar story. “I started building in 2014. Last year, someone called to say people were tearing down my house. By the time I got there, everything was gone.”

A Call for Justice

Residents are now pleading with the government. They want action. They want answers. Most of all, they want justice.

This isn’t just about land. It’s about the right to live in peace, without fear of losing everything overnight.

The post Lagos Residents Left Homeless by Bold Daylight Demolition appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The storm, which took place on Tuesday night, destroyed many homes in Garin Kestu, Atuwo Ward, and left the community in devastation. In addition to the homes, valuable property was severely damaged, affecting countless residents.

Governor Nasir Idris extended his deepest sympathies to the families impacted by the disaster. He urged the people to consider the incident an act of God. According to a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, the governor acknowledged the loss of property, estimated at millions of naira, and recognized the toll it has taken on the local community.

Representing the governor, the Chairman of Shanga Local Government, Audu Audu, visited the disaster-stricken area to assess the damage. He assured the affected residents that the state government would take swift action to assist them. The state’s support will include the provision of building materials to help residents rebuild their homes and restore some sense of normalcy.

Governor Idris called for patience from the victims, explaining that while immediate assistance would be provided, the full recovery process would take time. He reassured the public that the state’s focus would remain on delivering help in the coming weeks, addressing both long-term and immediate needs of the affected individuals.

Though the rainstorm has left a lasting impact on the community, Governor Idris’s commitment to offering relief has instilled hope in the residents of Garin Kestu and surrounding areas. With the government’s assistance, the people are optimistic about their ability to rebuild and recover from the devastation.

The post Kebbi State Hit by Devastating Rainstorm, Governor Promises Relief appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Traders and business owners at Alegongo Market in Ibadan, Oyo State, are counting their losses after the local government authorities demolished their shops and outlets.

The demolition took place following the expiration of a seven-day quit notice issued by the council chairman. Armed security operatives oversaw the demolition, paralyzing the commercial area and leaving many shop owners scrambling to salvage what they could from the wreckage.

Earlier in the week, the affected traders marched to the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, hoping to secure Governor Seyi Makinde’s intervention to stop the demolition.

Despite carrying placards and appealing to the governor for mercy, their pleas were ignored. The traders, who had not been able to meet with the council chairman since the eviction notice was posted, argued that they had long-standing agreements with community leaders regarding the use of the space. They believed the demolition posed a direct threat to their livelihoods.

With the expiration of the quit notice, the demolition proceeded as planned, leaving the traders in shock. Both residents and traders expressed confusion, as the reasons behind the action were unclear. One resident, Bimpe, voiced concerns about the suddenness of the demolition and its potential impact on the community. Traders like Mr. Ajibola Keru, who had been allocated the space for over 20 years, felt blindsided by the decision. They expected a more transparent process, including a discussion or meeting before the demolition occurred.

Local government officials, however, defended the action, claiming that the demolition was part of a broader effort to modernize the area for the benefit of both residents and business owners. Despite these claims, the traders remain frustrated and uncertain about the future of their businesses.

The post Traders in Ibadan Face Devastation as Oyo Council Demolishes Shops appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The incident, which took place on October 3, 2024, turned a near-completed housing project into debris.

The property, located in Gbegyedna Estate near the City College area, featured a two-bedroom bungalow, a one-bedroom unit, and a self-contained apartment. Each building was either completed or nearly finished—with tiles installed, walls painted, and electricity already connected.

Idoko spoke to journalists during a press briefing in Abuja. As he stood on what remained of his investment, his disappointment was clear. He said the Greater Karu Development Control Agency (GKDCA) carried out the demolition without sending any notice, presenting legal documents, or granting an opportunity for defense.

Before starting the project, he followed every official step. He opened a building file, submitted three sets of architectural plans, and attached a survey report. The former Nasarawa Urban Development Board (now GKDCA) gave him the green light after receiving the necessary payments, for which he holds receipts.

Later, he made an additional payment of N180,000 to the Karu Property Development Agency (KADPA) to finalize approvals. According to him, everything was done transparently and within the law.

“I could have continued investing abroad,” Idoko said. “But I chose Nigeria because I believed in the system. I followed the rules and trusted the process. I never imagined something like this would happen.”

On the morning of the demolition, a heavily armed task force arrived unannounced. Military personnel, police officers, civil defense agents, and local vigilantes formed part of the team. They began tearing down the buildings while his project supervisor and site manager stood by, confused and powerless. No one warned them, and no document was presented to justify the operation.

Afterward, Idoko discovered that a bishop had allegedly claimed ownership of the land and reported the situation to the Deputy Governor. He believes this triggered the demolition. Still, officials failed to provide any court order or formal communication. When he visited the agency’s office, staff told him they were acting on instructions.

He also mentioned a woman named Blessing Nwodoo, who he believes played a key role in the background. According to Idoko, she worked on the bishop’s behalf and pushed for the demolition through unofficial influence.

Now, he no longer wants the land or the project. The emotional toll, coupled with financial loss, has made him walk away from rebuilding. What he seeks is simple: compensation for what he lost—N100 million, covering land purchase, permits, labor, and materials.

“I’m not looking for revenge,” he said. “I don’t even want the land anymore. I just want fairness. What they destroyed wasn’t just property—it was my trust in this country.”

Idoko’s story has sparked serious conversations among Nigerians abroad. Many now question whether it’s truly safe to invest in the country they call home. His experience serves as both a call for justice and a warning to others: even those who do everything by the book can face devastating consequences in a system where accountability often falls through the cracks.

The post UK-Based Nigerian Cries Foul After Nasarawa Govt Destroys Multi-Million Naira Property Without Warning appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

These demolitions, executed under the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike, displaced hundreds of families without prior notice or compensation.

The affected communities including Egede, Iruala, Elechi Phase One, Elechi Beach Waterfront, Nanka, Ogwu Waterfront, Okwele, and Soku Waterfront took legal action in 2022, arguing that the demolitions violated their fundamental human rights. After years of legal battles, Justice Sika Aprioku ruled in their favor, declaring that the state government had no legal basis for the demolitions and failed to compensate the rightful landowners.

Court Condemns Government’s Actions

Delivering the verdict, Justice Aprioku strongly criticized the government’s actions, stating they were unjustified and violated due process. The ruling denounced the use of police force in evicting residents and seizing land under the pretense of urban renewal. The court also pointed out that no alternative housing was provided for those displaced, leaving many families in dire conditions.

As part of the judgment, the court awarded N900 million in compensation to the victims for the violation of their rights. Additionally, the Rivers State Government was fined N200 million, reinforcing the need for government accountability in handling land and housing issues. Legal experts have hailed this ruling as a significant step toward justice and a warning that authorities must follow due process.

Legal Representatives React

Following the verdict, Tonye Igeri, counsel for the applicants and a member of the Justice and Empowerment Initiative, welcomed the decision. He acknowledged that the case faced several obstacles, including attempts by certain Port Harcourt chiefs to interfere, but persistence led to victory. According to him, the ruling is a turning point in Nigeria’s housing rights advocacy.

However, Igeri cautioned that the real challenge is ensuring the government complies with the court’s ruling and pays the awarded compensation. He noted that many victims lost everything, with some even passing away while waiting for justice. His team remains committed to ensuring the funds reach the affected families.

Broader Implications for Urban Development

Beyond compensation, the case has sparked nationwide discussions about how governments handle urban development and land acquisitions. Igeri urged policymakers to learn from this ruling and put an end to forced evictions without due process. He emphasized the need for a more humane approach that ensures displaced residents receive relocation plans or fair compensation before demolitions occur.

This ruling is a significant victory for communities impacted by unlawful government actions. It reinforces the importance of accountability and sets a legal precedent for future cases. For the displaced residents, this judgment represents a hard-fought win, but their journey toward rebuilding their lives is just beginning.

The post Rivers State Government Fined N1.1 Billion for Illegal Demolitions appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

In response, the Kano State House of Assembly has launched an official investigation into the incident. On Monday, lawmakers took decisive action by forming a seven-member committee to probe the circumstances surrounding the demolition. The situation has caused significant economic hardship for those affected.

The motion to investigate the matter was raised by Ibrahim Muhammad, the representative of Rano Constituency. He condemned the demolition as deeply unfortunate and urged his fellow lawmakers to intervene. Muhammad questioned the rationale behind the action and called for an urgent review of the situation.

He also expressed concerns about the legality of the demolition. The shop owners, he pointed out, were not given adequate notice or any form of compensation. The sudden loss of their businesses, he argued, had left many traders without a means of survival in an already challenging economic climate.

Responding to these concerns, Speaker of the House Alhaji Ismail Falgore directed the formation of a special committee to investigate the issue.

The committee is chaired by Deputy Speaker Muhammad Butu-Butu and has been given a one-week deadline to submit its findings. Their task is to determine why the demolition was carried out, whether due process was followed, and what measures should be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Lawmakers emphasized that the well-being of the affected traders must be a priority. Appropriate recommendations will be made based on the committee’s findings.

The demolition, which occurred last week, has triggered massive protests across Rano Local Government Area. Market traders and residents have voiced their anger over the destruction.

They are calling on the state government to intervene by providing compensation and relocating the affected business owners. Many believe the demolition was carried out in a way that disregarded the rights and livelihoods of the people. This has fueled frustration and distrust toward local authorities.

As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the state assembly to ensure justice is served. For many of the traders who lost their shops, the stakes could not be higher.

Their businesses represented not just sources of income but also the foundation of their families’ financial security. With tensions running high, the outcome of the probe will be critical. It will determine the next steps and help restore confidence in the government’s handling of public markets and business properties.

The post Kano Lawmakers Investigate Demolition of 500 Market Shops appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

A report from real estate company Clever reveals that while most buyers prefer homes requiring minimal work, nearly a third end up purchasing properties that need substantial improvements. But at what point does it make more sense to demolish rather than renovate?

Tearing down a home offers a fresh start. It allows homeowners to construct a completely new property tailored to modern needs and personal tastes. Kurt Carlton, co-founder and president of New Western, a real estate investment marketplace, points out that while demolishing can sometimes be more affordable than renovating, the actual costs depend on various factors, including location and project specifics.

A new build eliminates the limitations of outdated structures, providing opportunities for contemporary designs and advanced energy efficiency. Renovations, on the other hand, often require working around existing layouts and materials, which might not always align with a homeowner’s vision.

Despite its advantages, demolition isn’t always the simplest solution. Carlton explains that since 2008, constructing new homes has become increasingly complicated due to regulatory requirements, labor shortages, and material costs. Nearly 25% of a new home’s cost now comes from compliance and permitting expenses.

Delays in securing permits and finding skilled workers add to the challenges, making rebuilding from the ground up more difficult than it may initially seem. While demolishing a home offers a clean slate, the process can be riddled with unforeseen obstacles that stretch budgets and timelines.

The choice between demolition and renovation requires careful consideration. Structural integrity is a key factor—if a home has foundational issues or extensive damage, rebuilding might be the safer and more efficient option. Similarly, properties that don’t meet modern building codes may require so many upgrades that a teardown becomes the more practical choice.

Carlton notes that in high-end housing markets, where demand for luxury homes is high, demolition can be a smart investment. However, in urban areas where affordable housing is a pressing issue, renovations are often the better path, as constructing new homes at lower price points has become nearly impossible.

Perhaps the most critical aspect of a successful demolition project is selecting the right builder. Carlton warns that while renovations may uncover existing problems, demolitions introduce new risks. With an older home, issues are generally known and can be addressed. But when building from scratch, unexpected complications can arise. He stresses the importance of thoroughly vetting builders, checking references, and speaking with past clients to understand their experiences. While portfolios may showcase stunning completed projects, they don’t always reveal the challenges encountered along the way. Homeowners who choose demolition must ensure they have a skilled and trustworthy team to navigate the complexities of construction.

Ultimately, the decision to renovate or demolish depends on personal goals, budget constraints, and local market conditions. Some homeowners may prefer a blank slate and a fully customized home, while others might find that renovating an existing structure offers a more cost-effective and manageable solution. By weighing the pros and cons and thoroughly understanding the process, homeowners can make the choice that best suits their long-term needs and lifestyle.

The post Demolition vs. Renovation: What’s the Right Move for Your Home? appeared first on Housing TV Africa.