All structures standing on waterways within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are to be demolished.
The Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) , Shehun Ahmed revealed this on Sunday in Abuja.
He said some structures were preventing free flow of water through its natural course, thus causing floods in some parts of the city.
“People are clamoring that we act quickly and take tough decisions to save lives. And this is what we must do. We cannot act as though we don’t see this man-made problem caused by those who violate the Abuja Master Plan.”
” Buildings in Trademore Estate had been severally marked for demolition. Warnings have been given year after year but the occupants of the estate keep risking their lives and those of others.
“By declaring Trademore a disaster zone, we have told the residents there to evacuate. The area is on a low line zone which is not safe. Flooding can come at anytime. They know this and have been experiencing it over the years”.
Ahmad, who is the chairman, Special Ministerial Task Team on Flood Mitigation, said a Police station in Trademore would be demolished and other buildings.
“We have The Police station in Trademore would be demolished. It will go alongside other buildings. We have engaged the FCT Police command and have provided a suitable place for them to operate from and fight crime.”
He said the Trademore Estate lacks FCDA Approved building plan and the continuous flooded areas can best be left as Green areas and not residential.
Ahmad said apart fromthe estate, there are other structures built on floodplains that would be removed too.
