Residents of Nigeria’s federal capital territory (FCT) Abuja have recently been at the center of significant developments, which has left them grappling with various challenges.

Two major issues have emerged: widespread demolition exercises led by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the ever-escalating cost of living.

The ongoing demolition campaign in Abuja has targeted illegal structures and shanties, with the government citing safety, orderliness, and urban planning as the reasons.

Minister Wike emphasized that these measures aim to restore Abuja’s status as a model city, with plans to replace some demolished areas with bus terminals.

“The demolition is necessary to ensure orderliness and safety, as well as to restore the Abuja master plan,”

However, this has displaced thousands of residents, many of whom are low-income earners.

Communities have pleaded for alternative housing arrangements, highlighting that these demolitions have disrupted their lives and left them without shelter.

Sarah Jimmy said, “We are calling on President Tinubu to intervene and stop these demolitions before more families are left homeless”

“The government must provide affordable housing and stabilize the economy to support struggling residents.”

These activities have left many residents homeless and sparked protests, with affected individuals calling on President Bola Tinubu and Minister Nyesom Wike to intervene.

Property owners argue that some demolitions targeted approved structures, urging the government to ensure fairness and transparency in urban planning enforcement.

An elderly resident, Merit Igwe, who owns a property in Lugbe which was demolished said, “We have been living here for years with legitimate documents, yet our homes were destroyed without prior notice. Where are we supposed to go now?”

At the same time, Abuja residents are grappling with an increasingly high cost of living. Traders and small business owners report dwindling sales as many citizens prioritize basic needs over discretionary spending.

Food prices have risen sharply, with inflation significantly impacting household budgets. Commuters have also expressed frustration over surging transportation costs, making it harder to manage daily expenses.

Many residents are calling for government intervention to address these economic pressures.

According to Ofon Sunday, “I can barely make ends meet these days. Customers are cutting down on spending because everything is so expensive now,”

She also complained that “Transportation costs have doubled in the past year. It’s becoming impossible to save any money,”

As Abuja undergoes these transformations, the dual challenges of displacement and economic strain continue to be prominent issues, emphasizing the need for urgent and compassionate responses to support affected communities.