Sagwari Layout Estate, located at Dutse in Bwari council area of Abuja, recently became the scene of kidnapping. In response to this series of incidents, Mukhtar Galadima, director of development control at FCTA (Federal Capital Territory Administration), led an operation to investigate the causes of these kidnappings and propose solutions.
The team, comprising development officials and security forces, visited the area to identify unlicensed buildings and other illegal activities in the area. It was found that many structures were erected without the approval of the FCTA Development Control Department.
This situation is the result of poor planning on the part of community leaders and some FCTA staff. It is therefore essential to take measures to combat these illegal activities and protect the population.
Once the area is profiled, the development control department will recommend necessary measures to curb the activities of criminals. Importantly, these illegal developments threaten both the FCTA administration and the nearby Lower Usuma Dam.
The director stressed that the government will not accept this situation and will take appropriate measures. The aim is to protect reserved areas, such as the region surrounding the Usuma Dam, which must remain secure and in compliance with planning guidelines.
Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary, Command and Control Centre, Department of Security Services, FCTA, stressed that the observed lapses are the result of illegal activities of residents of the area. He noted that many residents purchased land from the village chief without concern for the safety of residents and property in the area.
Visiting a mountain site where kidnappings have taken place, the team found that these developments do not meet planning standards. It is therefore crucial to raise awareness among local populations and enforce development regulations.
The report and recommendations resulting from this operation will be transmitted to the competent authorities in order to take appropriate measures to remedy this situation and ensure the security of the region.
In short, this development control operation in Sagwari Layout Estate aims to put an end to illegal activities and strengthen land planning to ensure the safety of residents. It is essential to take rapid and effective measures to protect reserved areas and prevent kidnappings and other crimes. Collaboration between the Department of Development Control, security forces and community leaders is crucial to achieving these goals.