Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Abuja on Saturday in a large demonstration led by former presidential candidate and activist, Omoyele Sowore, over allegations of widespread land grabbing in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The protesters accused the FCT administration of illegally reallocating lands originally acquired through due process to political associates and individuals described as cronies. They further alleged that public spaces in the capital are being systematically taken over under the current land administration system.
The demonstration, which drew significant participation across key parts of the capital, focused heavily on concerns around Jabi Lake and Jabi Park. Protesters insisted that these areas, which are regarded as important public assets, must be protected from encroachment and privatization.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Save Jabi Lake Now,” “Save Jabi Park Now,” and “Stop Land Grabbing in Abuja,” the demonstrators called for immediate transparency in land allocation practices within the FCT.
As the protest progressed, chants echoed through the crowd, with participants accusing top political figures of complicity in the alleged irregular land distribution. Some protesters directly referenced the leadership of the FCT administration, demanding accountability and an end to what they described as the “systematic takeover of public lands.”
The protesters also called for urgent reforms to ensure that land administration in Abuja remains transparent, lawful, and in the public interest.
As of the time of reporting, the protest was still ongoing in parts of the capital.