The Secretary of Kpaduma Community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and member of the Original Inhabitants Development Association (OIDA), Simon Baba Yerima, has called on the Minister for Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Hon. Zaphaniah Jisalo, a former Senator representing FCT, Senator Philip Aduda, Area Council chairmen and monarchs of the Territory, to support the integration of Abuja indigenes.
Yerima, in an interview with journalists at the weekend, explained that for decades, Kpaduma and many other indigenous communities of FCT have faced forced evictions, demolition of ancestral homes, and loss of farmlands without adequate resettlement or compensation.
He said every voice should come up because Nigeria operates a federal system of government, hence FCT indigenes shouldn’t be taken for granted or seen as they are not part of the country. “We are not aliens, we are bonafide citizens of FCT and Nigeria,” he stressed.
“So, let the democratic system reach even to the grassroots. Everybody must be respected. We too respect them.
“We are not trying to be arrogant. All we are calling is that the tears are full of our faces, wipe our tears so that we can see the good things together,” he added.
He further explained that in 2011 and 2012, legal actions were taken against the FCT Administration, and court cases were won in favour of the indigenous people.
“We have two judgments, one interlocutory order in our favour. So, the minister shouldn’t continue the wrongdoing.
“He can’t continue like that, he’s a legal practitioner. So, I know and I believe he’s going to do better. He must respect his profession,” Yerima said.
He noted that despite being the original custodians of the land where Nigeria’s capital city now stands, they continue to live with the pain of displacement, land confiscation, and broken promises.
“We are as old as Nigeria itself,” Yerima stated, his voice echoing the dignity of a people who feel ignored.
“We are not resisting development. In fact, we welcome it. But not at the cost of our homes, our farms, and our identity. Despite the hardships, the community remains hopeful.
“Kpaduma is not asking for charity, they are demanding constitutional rights. We are not aliens. We are citizens. Let our tears be wiped so we, too, can enjoy the promises of democracy.
“In a democracy, the voices of the people matter. And today, the Kpaduma voice is rising not in defiance, but in a plea for recognition, respect, and restoration,” Yerima stated.