- Senator Kingibe condemns police for shooting unarmed protesters in Abuja
- Calls it “state-sponsored trauma,” demands urgent investigation
- Victims currently hospitalised with gunshot wounds in Gwagwa
The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ireti Kingibe, has strongly condemned the police for opening fire on unarmed residents protesting a demolition exercise in Abuja’s Karsana community.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the shooting, which occurred on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, left two residents, Sunday Danjuma and Jacob Audu hospitalised with gunshot wounds at Gwagwa health centre. The victims were among those protesting the demolition of their homes by Abuja authorities.
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Senator Kingibe described the incident as a gross abuse of power and labelled it “state-sponsored trauma,” stating that using bullets against displaced civilians is indefensible.
She expressed deep outrage, saying it was inhumane for security operatives to fire at citizens already grappling with the trauma of losing their homes.
Kingibe criticised the government’s approach to urban development, calling it heartless and lacking compassion.
She argued that demolishing communities without engaging stakeholders or offering humane alternatives only fuels tension.
The lawmaker maintained that no society could be just when its most vulnerable are treated with hostility by the very government meant to protect them.
“This is not law enforcement,” she said, “this is persecution of the powerless.”
Calling for swift justice, Kingibe urged authorities to investigate the shooting, prosecute those responsible, and compensate the victims.
She stressed that Abuja must not turn into a city where the poor live in fear of their own government.
“I will not stay silent while those I represent bleed,” she said defiantly.
Community chairman Zakari Baba confirmed that the shooting happened when some residents tried to re-enter their demolished homes to retrieve belongings.
Police allegedly opened fire when the protesters approached the area, causing chaos and injuries.
Two people were reportedly hit by stray bullets and rushed to the health centre in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as terrifying and chaotic, accusing the police of excessive force.
Senator Kingibe’s remarks have triggered renewed calls for a comprehensive review of demolition policies in the FCT.
Activists and civil society groups have demanded that the government halt forced evictions without proper resettlement plans.
They also want an end to the militarisation of civilian spaces during urban enforcement operations.
The FCT police command has yet to issue a public statement addressing the incident or the Senator’s condemnation.
Meanwhile, residents of Karsana remain fearful and uncertain about their future as the demolition continues.
