The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has called for an urgent investigation into alleged illegal demolitions in the Sabon-Lugbe area of Abuja, which have displaced numerous residents and caused significant economic losses.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, REDAN President, Akintoye Adeoye, demanded that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, clear his name and urgently set up a panel of inquiry to probe the controversial demolitions.

The demolitions, reportedly valued at over N200 billion, have raised serious concerns about due process and the legal authority behind the actions. According to REDAN, developers affected by the demolitions possess all necessary title documents and building permits issued by the FCT’s Development Control Department.

Adeoye stressed that the demolitions reportedly occurred without prior notice or court order, prompting accusations of illegality and lack of transparency. “The country is currently grappling with a severe housing deficit. At a time when foreign subsidies have been removed, and the naira is being floated, we cannot afford economic waste.

“The demolition of housing at such a critical time amounts to an economic waste and benefits no one, as it further worsens the housing crisis,” Adeoye stated. “Given the current economic challenges, there is an urgent need for caution and efficient management of our limited resources. Any action that renders Nigerians homeless should be condemned by all.”

He also raised alarm over the possible breach of citizens’ property rights, insisting that even in cases where demolition is considered necessary, it must be conducted in a manner that adheres to the rule of law, ensuring fairness and due process.

“Even when demolition is a last resort, it must be carried out transparently and following the law. It cannot be at the discretion of any individual or agency without the proper legal framework in place,” he added. “REDAN stands for fairness and the rule of law in all matters concerning land and property development.”

He urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter to ensure that the rights of affected citizens are upheld and that justice is served.
REDAN also emphasised the need for cooperation from all stakeholders, including the affected developers and the FCT administration, to ensure a thorough investigation and a just resolution.

“REDAN calls on all parties to fully cooperate with the inquiry process,” Adeoye concluded. “We believe that a fair and transparent inquiry is the only way to resolve this issue and prevent further harm to Nigeria’s real estate sector and its citizens.”

IN a related development, the association has warned that the ongoing property demolitions in Lagos State, particularly concerning the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project could severely damage investor confidence.

Adeoye expressed deep concern over the ongoing property demolitions and urged the government to uphold the rule of law, saying “These demolitions are causing immense hardship for those affected and threatening the livelihood of many Nigerians. The ongoing destruction of projects has forced many developers to seek opportunities in other states, deepening the housing deficit in the country.”

He also wants fair compensation to those affected, stating that the total value of investments impacted by the demolitions exceeds a trillion naira. The demolitions, which have particularly affected members of REDAN, have rendered 60 developers facing significant financial setbacks.

“The real estate industry needs investors, but if these kinds of demolitions continue, we risk losing that support,” Adeoye said. “There needs to be a fair compensation mechanism that puts investors back in the position they were before their properties were demolished”

Adeoye said the government should be governed by laws rather than “an individual’s discretion”, stating that “any action that disregards the constitutional rights of citizens sets a dangerous precedent that undermines equity and fairness. Even when one enters a land without a title, it is not a criminal act and does not give the government the right to demolish your property. This is where compensation and ratification come in.”

For REDAN Vice President, South-West Zone, Dr Kunle Adeyemi, approximately 35 per cent of Nigerian diaspora investors have been directly impacted by the recent demolitions, dashing hopes for a resurgence of foreign direct investment.

“While the government focuses on attracting foreign investment, it is neglecting the needs and concerns of local investors,” Adeyemi said. “When citizens can no longer trust the government for the security of their investments, a state of anarchy is in view. The government needs to encourage the citizens and assure them that their investments are secure.”

The Chairman, REDAN Lagos chapter, Dr Tony Kolawole, appealed to the Federal Government and Lagos State to restore confidence in the real estate market.
“These issues are discouraging developers from investing in Lagos State. This situation is very scary. Initially, the government made the environment enabling, but these recent actions have struck fear in the hearts of investors.”