“How Can First Lady Want My House?” 80-Year-Old Elder Cries Out After Abuja Demolition

 

Abuja, Nigeria — Suleiman Abdullahi, an 80-year-old property owner and elder statesman, has spoken out after his building in Asokoro District was demolished, raising questions about due process and alleged political interference in land enforcement.

His property at No. 25, Plot 1250B on Yakubu Gowon Crescent was pulled down in an operation that has sparked public debate over how government agencies handle demolitions in the Federal Capital Territory.

Claims of First Lady’s Interest Rejected

Speaking during an interview on News Central TV on Monday, 8 June 2026, Abdullahi detailed his grievances and strongly rejected claims linking his property to interest from a top government figure.

“They said it’s the first lady that has interest in my house. How can the first lady, who has all the machinery of government at her disposal to be allocated fresh lands anywhere she wants in this country, choose not to go and look for land except my house?” Abdullahi asked.

He argued it defies logic for any high-ranking official with access to legitimate land allocation channels to single out a private residence.

Calls for Due Process and Accountability 

Abdullahi said proper procedures were not followed before the demolition. He called on authorities to ensure fairness and due process in future enforcement actions, stressing that transparency is critical to maintaining public trust.

The demolition has added to ongoing concerns in Abuja over disputed land titles, selective enforcement, and allegations that powerful interests influence which properties are targeted.

As of press time, no official response had been issued by the Federal Capital Development Authority or the Office of the First Lady regarding Abdullahi’s claims.

The incident continues to generate discussion among residents and legal experts about balancing urban development with the rights of property owners in the capital.