By MUHAMMED DANBABA
Cracks, Vibrations, and Anxiety Plague Maitama Community Amid Ongoing Construction
ABUJA – Residents of Aso Garden Estate, located in the upscale Maitama district of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have raised urgent concerns over structural damages to their homes caused by ongoing construction activities allegedly initiated by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The construction project, which began without prior notification or consultation with the estate’s residents, has reportedly caused cracks in walls, weakened foundations, and other safety hazards attributed to heavy vibrations emanating from the nearby site.
Residents Demand Ministerial Intervention
In a petition submitted to Minister Wike and made available to Vanguard on Sunday, Dr. Nurain Abayomi Mumuni, representing the estate’s chairman, voiced the community’s distress and called for immediate intervention to address the damages and risks posed by the construction.
The petition emphasized the residents’ growing anxiety about the structural integrity of their homes and urged the minister to:
- Assess the construction’s impact on the estate.
- Enforce necessary safety regulations to protect their properties.
- Arrange a dialogue involving residents, authorities, and construction management to resolve the issues amicably.
Key Excerpts from the Petition
Dr. Mumuni’s petition read in part:
“Since the commencement of this construction, we have observed significant and continuous heavy vibrations that have not only caused discomfort but also raised serious concerns about the structural integrity of our properties.”
He further highlighted:
“Many residents have reported noticeable cracks in walls, compromised foundations, and other structural damage that could lead to serious safety hazards. Unfortunately, this construction began without any prior notification or consultation with the residents of Aso Garden Estate.”
The residents stressed the importance of community input, expressing disappointment over the lack of engagement in such a critical development affecting their homes and safety.
Residents Seek Dialogue and Cooperation
The petition concluded with a request for an urgent meeting between:
- Relevant government authorities,
- The construction management team, and
- Representatives of Aso Garden Estate residents.
Dr. Mumuni reiterated the community’s commitment to maintaining cooperative relationships with authorities and emphasized the need for swift action to prevent further damage and alleviate residents’ fears.
Concerns Over Safety and Legal Implications
The ongoing situation has sparked broader concerns over the potential legal and safety ramifications of unchecked construction activities in high-density residential areas. Experts warn that unregulated vibrations and foundational damages could lead to catastrophic outcomes if not addressed promptly.
Call to Action for Authorities
Residents and advocacy groups are urging Minister Wike and FCT authorities to take decisive steps to:
- Investigate the claims of structural damage,
- Implement precautionary measures to mitigate further risks, and
- Foster better communication with communities directly affected by government-led projects
