The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has categorically refuted claims circulating on social media suggesting plans to demolish sections of the national mosque in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Thursday, FCDA spokesperson Richard Nduul dismissed the reports as baseless and clarified that there are no intentions to initiate any demolition activities at the revered religious site.
Nduul emphasized, “The FCDA wishes to state unequivocally that as far as it is concerned, the news is fake or at best a mixed-up report. There was no time whatsoever that the Honourable Minister of the FCT directed for the demolition of the National Mosque nor did the Executive Secretary receive any directive pertaining to the demolition of the National Mosque.”
The FCDA spokesperson further highlighted that a delegation from the Abuja mosque management committee, led by Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe, recently visited FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to appeal for more time in developing the two plots of land allocated to the national mosque.
One of the plots, identified as Plot 63, is reportedly impacted by the future development of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX), with an alternative or replacement site currently under consideration.
Nduul elaborated on the matter, stating, “It is pertinent to state that the minister’s directive on the status of the lands allocated to the National Mosque was contrary to what the reporter portrays as the demolition of the National Mosque. The above explanation is the true and correct reflection of what actually transpired, and this could also be further confirmed from the National Mosque Management Board. It is, therefore, hoped that this explanation will bring a closure to the so-called National Mosque demolition fallacy.”
Furthermore, the spokesperson underscored the FCT administration’s commitment to preserving and supporting the national mosque, ensuring that any future developments align with the holistic vision for the site.
