Amnesty International Criticizes Demolition of Abuja Community, Accuses of Rights Violations

Amnesty International has condemned the demolition of homes in Abuja’s Durumi 3 community, calling the action an arbitrary and violent forced eviction that left hundreds of residents homeless.

In a statement released Monday, the human‑rights group said that bulldozers, accompanied by heavily armed police, entered the area at about 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, 31 May 2026, and demolished houses while some occupants were still inside.

Amnesty International said the operation showed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) authorities’ disregard for due process and for the welfare of affected residents.

“Many homes were bulldozed while entire families were still inside,” the organization said, adding that the exercise displaced hundreds of families and stripped several residents of their livelihoods.

The group accused authorities of prioritising the interests of private developers over the rights and well‑being of citizens.

“The forced eviction of Durumi 3 community again shows the Nigerian government’s utter disregard for the well‑being of the people and dedication to the greed of rapacious private developers,” Amnesty International stated.

It argued that forced evictions violate internationally recognised human rights, including the right to adequate housing and the rights of indigenous communities.

The organization noted that such actions can expose affected persons to further human‑rights concerns, such as limited access to food, water, healthcare, education, employment, and protection from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

Amnesty called on the Federal Government to intervene and direct FCT authorities to halt further evictions, stressing that Nigeria is a signatory to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

“The federal government must direct FCT authorities to refrain from enforcing these evictions and take action to prevent them,” the statement said.

The organization concluded by urging authorities to ensure that all citizens are treated equally and have access to safe housing.

“Every person, regardless of status, in society must have a place. Nigeria belongs to all and not just to a select few,” Amnesty International added.