The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has demolished 11 multi-storey residential buildings in Apo-Dutse, a rapidly developing suburb of Nigeria’s capital, citing serious breaches of urban planning regulations and threats to public safety.

The demolition, carried out on Thursday, targeted three- and four-bedroom apartment blocks constructed without approval and in defiance of multiple stop-work orders. According to Mukhtar Galadima, Director of the FCTA’s Department of Development Control, the buildings were situated dangerously close to high-tension power lines and a designated site for a future bridge—posing risks to both residents and critical infrastructure.

“They applied for approval, which we declined due to proximity to a high-tension line and a stream channel,” Galadima explained. “Despite this, they proceeded from excavation to completion, ignoring all warnings and official notices.”

The FCTA had offered the developers an alternative plot, but the offer was rejected. Galadima confirmed that no compensation would be provided, as the structures were unauthorized. “Compensation is reserved for approved properties affected by development—not illegal constructions,” he stated.

Legal action is expected against those responsible, including fines and recovery of demolition costs, as part of efforts to deter future violations.

Local residents observed the demolition with mixed emotions. While some expressed relief over the removal of unsafe structures, others lamented the loss of potential affordable housing in a city grappling with rising demand and limited supply. Several individuals had already rented units in the buildings, unaware of their legal status.