As the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) marked its 50th anniversary on Tuesday, the FCT Stakeholders’ Assembly has called for an improved mode of compensation and resettlement practices by the government.
The group.aldo.called for greater inclusion, political representation and fairness for indigenous communities of the territory.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the spokesman ,Dr Aliyu Daniel Kwali said the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect not only on Abuja’s infrastructure and urban growth since its creation in 1976, but also on the social and political experiences of its original inhabitants.
The Assembly raised concerns over land acquisition, resettlement processes and the impact of development projects on indigenous settlements, citing communities such as Gishiri, Karsana and Kuchibedna.
Highlighting constitutional issues affecting the FCT, the Assembly bemoaned the absence of gubernatorial and State House of Assembly elections, as well as limited legislative representation compared to other states.
In addition, the Assembly urged stronger protection of cultural heritage, ancestral lands and sacred sites, and called for policies that align development with community welfare.
To mark the occasion, the group presented a charter of demands including constitutional reforms, expanded political representation and governance structures that ensure indigenous participation in decision-making.
It appealed to the Federal Government, National Assembly and other stakeholders to engage in dialogue aimed at promoting inclusion, equity and sustainable development in the nation’s capital.