A brewing conflict is expected to reach a breaking point this Sunday, August 2, as scrap metal dealers prepare to launch operations at a new market site. The facility is located along the boundary fence of the Mabglobal Estate in Karsana, a residential area home to approximately 700 families. The Green Residence and Efab estates also sit adjacent to the market, which residents claim is backed by influential figures.
Residents are deeply concerned about the market’s presence, arguing that it violates the FCT Masterplan and creates significant security risks. When construction began in January, estate leadership investigated the project’s legitimacy. Builders initially displayed authorization from the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC). However, following formal complaints, the AMMC issued a letter in February 2026 rescinding the approval, admitting it had been granted in error.
Despite this withdrawal, developers resumed construction in July with the apparent support of certain AMMC officials, prompting further outcry. Pharmacist Fredrick Okonkwo, President of the Mabglobal Estate Homeowners Association, has petitioned the Department of Development Control, highlighting that the market threatens the safety of over 2,500 households. Residents fear the influx of transient traders and potential criminal elements, drawing parallels to previous, dangerous shanty markets.
While the AMMC stated in February that they recognized the legitimacy of the residents’ security concerns, the developers have ignored the cancellation notice and accelerated construction to meet an August 2 opening deadline. Affected homeowners have now alerted security agencies and are prepared to escalate their grievances to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to ensure the project is halted.
