Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has strongly condemned the reported shooting of unarmed residents by police during a protest against house demolitions in Karsana, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
The incident, which left at least two natives, Sunday Danjuma and Jacob Audu, injured, occurred when security operatives allegedly opened fire on protesters attempting to retrieve belongings from their demolished homes.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Senator Kingibe described the police action as “state-sponsored trauma” and an “indefensible” violation of citizens’ rights. “As the Senator representing the FCT, I am deeply disturbed and angered by the tragic events in Karsana, where police reportedly fired on residents merely trying to salvage their lives and dignity,” she said.
Kingibe criticized the use of lethal force against vulnerable citizens already grappling with the loss of their homes, calling it a gross abuse of power.
The Karsana community chairman, Zakari Baba, confirmed that the violence erupted around 10 a.m. when police stationed at the community’s main gate blocked displaced residents from entering to recover their possessions.
When some protesters attempted to force their way in, officers reportedly opened fire, injuring at least two individuals who are now receiving treatment at Gwagwa Health Centre.
Senator Kingibe demanded an immediate investigation into the incident, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable and ensure victims receive proper care, justice, and compensation.
She also called for a more humane approach to urban development in the FCT, emphasizing that residents should be treated as stakeholders, not obstacles. “We cannot build a just society by bulldozing communities without compassion or firing at citizens instead of listening to them,” she stated.
The Senator vowed to continue advocating for FCT residents, declaring, “I will not stay silent while those I represent bleed. Abuja must not become a place where the poor live in fear of the very government meant to serve them.”
However, the FCT Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, denied the allegations, stating that no protesters were shot during the incident.
She encouraged victims to contact the police to aid any investigation.
This incident has reignited debates over the FCT Administration’s demolition policies under Minister Nyesom Wike, with critics arguing for more inclusive urban planning that prioritizes residents’ welfare.
