The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, Shehu Ahmed, has said all structures on waterways and flood corridors across the capital city will be demolished by the FCT administration. Mr. Ahmed revealed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
He said some structures were preventing water from flowing freely through its natural course which was responsible for flooding recorded in some parts of the city.
In his words, “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 in a low-line zone which is not safe. Flooding can come at anytime. They know this and have been experiencing it over the years,”
Mr. Ahmed, who also happens to be the chairman of the Special Ministerial Task Team on Flood Mitigation, disclosed that a police station in the trademore estate, and other buildings would be demolished.
He said, “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,”
Notwithstanding, “Trademoore is not the only estate affected. The government should fix the problem. Trace the water, and build better drainages,” he said.