Businesses in Abuja’s Area 11, Garki District, were thrown into uncertainty on Tuesday after demolition crews pulled down several commercial buildings, including a popular pizza outlet and multiple phone accessories shops.
When reporters visited the area later in the afternoon, the demolition was still underway, while the identity of the property’s new owner had not been officially disclosed.
Several affected business owners said they had received a six-month eviction notice from the new property owner, adding that the notice had expired months before the demolition exercise commenced.
Employees of the affected pizza outlet described the development as distressing, expressing concern over the uncertainty surrounding their jobs. Some workers said the branch employs more than 20 staff members and hoped the company would redeploy them to other outlets within the Federal Capital Territory.
The demolition also disrupted operations for several phone accessories dealers and other businesses operating within the complex, with many occupants scrambling to salvage their goods before the buildings were demolished.
Attempts to obtain comments from the management of the affected businesses were unsuccessful, as officials declined to speak on the incident. Similarly, the individual reported to have acquired the property could not be reached for comment.
The Federal Capital Development Control Department (FCDCD) distanced itself from the exercise. A spokesperson for the agency told reporters that it was not responsible for carrying out the demolition.
The incident adds to growing concerns among business operators in Abuja over property ownership disputes, redevelopment projects and the impact of demolitions on livelihoods and employment…See More
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