Residents of Katampe Extension in Abuja has pleaded with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to stop land grabbers and dangerous use of explosives in the community.
They noted that natural waterways and drainage channels, essential for managing stormwater, have been blocked or given to developers, posing a significant risk to the area’s ecosystem and potentially destabilising the Lower Usuma Dam.
Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Katampe Extension Residents Association (KERA), Wole Atolagbe, stated that developers have been trying to establish illegal connections between Katampe Extension and neighbouring districts in Bwari, such as Usuma and Jikoko.
He also noted that the ongoing development is making it easier for the residents to be kidnapped by criminals.
KERA Vice President, Austin Maho stated that the frequent use of explosives by the developers caused the recent earth tremors.
“The noise from the explosions is deafening, and our buildings shake to their foundations. We are increasingly uncertain about the integrity of our homes.”
“If these activities are not checked, we could face catastrophic flooding of Usuma Dam, similar to what occurred in Maiduguri and other parts of the country.”
“We are appealing to Minister Nyesom Wike to restore the district to its original master plan and protect the community from further harm.
“We also urge the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives Committee on the FCT, to investigate the ongoing situation in Katampe Extension.”
He further pleaded with the government to help the people of Katampe Extension .