FCTA REVOKES ALL PARK LICENCES, ORDERS FRESH SCREENING

  …As Durumi Shanties Face Imminent Demolition

By: Wisdom Acka

In a sweeping move to restore order and compliance, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has withdrawn all operational licenses for parks across Abuja.

It has equally mandated operators to undergo fresh screening for possible reallocation of parks.

Director, FCTA Department of Development Control, Tpl. Murkhtar Galadima, who revealed this during a press briefing on Wednesday, 3rd September, 2025 explained the rationale behind the recent demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama.

He further disclosed that the notorious shanties in Durumi, a haven for criminals masquerading as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), are next in line for removal.

Galadima stressed that the Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike’s decision to revoke all park allocations followed a joint memo from the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Land Administration departments.

According to him, the reports exposed systemic violations and mismanagement in park operations.

“This is not a witch-hunt. The Minister has the prerogative to reclaim and reallocate land in the FCT, including parks, to ensure adherence to the law,” he emphasized.

Galadima, however, stated that operators have been granted a window to resubmit their documents for review. “If they meet the terms, reallocation is possible,” Galadima stated, urging compliance.

On Durumi, he described the situation as “multi-dimensional,” with involvement from the Refugee Commission, FCT Emergency Management Agency, and security agencies.

“We will profile and clear the area. Plot owners must develop their land to deter criminal elements exploiting road corridors,” he asserted, revealing there has been rampant attacks on residents by elements traceable to the shanties.

The Director also disclosed that a ministerial committee has been constituted to audit park allocations, ensuring they serve their original recreational purpose, warning: “The FCT is governed by law. Lawlessness will not be tolerated.”