Two natives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), identified as Sunday Danjuma and Jacob Audu, have been shot by policemen during a protest over the demolition of houses in the Karsana community, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Zakari Baba, chairman of the Karsana community, confirmed the incident and said the police opened fire when some displaced residents tried to force their way into the area to recover their belongings.
He said the commotion began around 10am after security operatives stationed at the main gate of the community blocked the natives from gaining entry.
“Some of the natives attempted to force their way into the community through the gate, forcing the police to open fire.
“In fact, as I speak, two of the natives that sustained bullet wounds are currently receiving treatment at Gwagwa health centre,” Baba told Daily Trust.
Musa Dikko, commissioner representing the FCT at the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), confirmed the shooting during a phone conversation with our reporter.
He said the police opened fire while attempting to disperse protesting villagers and that he had since visited the scene to calm tensions.
“Actually, I led some of my officials to the community when I received a distress call that two natives of Karsana community were shot.
“And as I speak, we have been able to douse tension while we have also invited the developer to come to our office so that he will explain on whose directive he carried out the demolition,” Dikko said.