A wave of reactions has trailed the demolition of an ECWA Church located in Kuchibeyedna, a community within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following an order reportedly issued by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
According to local sources, the demolition exercise was carried out by officials of the FCT Development Control Department, who arrived in the early hours of the day accompanied by security personnel. The church building, which has served the growing community for years, was pulled down over what authorities described as “violations of land use regulations.”
Residents of Kuchibeyedna expressed shock and distress as they watched the structure being brought down. Some members of the church reported that the leadership had been in communication with authorities over documentation and land regularization before the sudden enforcement action.
The FCT Administration has maintained its stance that the ongoing demolition of structures across Abuja is part of efforts to restore the Abuja Master Plan and remove illegal buildings erected without proper approval.
This aligns with Wike’s earlier warnings that all illegal developments—regardless of ownership—would be addressed.
However, the demolition of a place of worship has stirred debates, with many questioning whether dialogue and due process were sufficiently explored.
Some religious leaders have called for a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the action, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in engagements involving worship centers.
As the dust settles, members of the ECWA congregation in Kuchibeyedna are left counting their losses and seeking clarity on the next steps.
Community leaders are also appealing to the FCT Administration for reconsideration and possible support for relocation, as they work to restore hope among affected worshippers.
The incident adds to the growing list of demolition activities under the current administration—an agenda that continues to divide public opinion across the FCT.
