FCT landlords, business owners demand action over worsening Abuja floods

Landlords, business owners and investors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have demanded urgent action from the FCT Administration to tackle the worsening flooding in Abuja. At a press conference, the FCT Stakeholders Forum for Development (FSTF) urged the government to desilt drainage channels, enforce laws against encroachment and review the 1979 Master Plan.

The forum's Chairman, Chief David Kente, explained that recent floods have submerged homes and cut off roads, disrupting livelihoods across the capital. Kente noted that the issue isn't limited to the current administration, as Abuja has faced flooding under previous leadership as well. However, he argued that the 1979 Master Plan is outdated and no longer reflects the city's population growth and infrastructural demands, calling for its urgent modernization.

The forum's assessment found that flooding results from rapid urban expansion, blocked drainage systems, indiscriminate waste disposal and scavengers removing drainage covers. While some blame the flooding on alleged violations of the Abuja Master Plan, the FSTF maintains that the problem dates back to earlier administrations and requires a comprehensive long-term solution.

The group believes that with proper planning, political will and collaboration between the government and residents, Abuja can become a flood-resilient capital.