Residents of the Guzape District in the Federal Capital Territory have voiced their concerns over the incessant rock blasting conducted by construction giant, Gilmor Engineering Limited.
Led by former Kogi State Deputy Governor, Simon Achuha, residents and property owners gathered to address the media, calling on the Federal Government to intervene and halt the hazardous activities.
Over the past three months, residents have experienced tremors caused by the close proximity of rock blasting to residential areas, posing threat to lives and properties. Despite previous complaints to regulatory authorities and law enforcement, the construction company allegedly continued its operations without regard for safety regulations.
Achuha has called for the urgent need for action from governmental bodies such as the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, the Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals Development, the Federal Ministry of Environment, and the Federal Capital Development Administration. He stressed that the blasting not only compromises the integrity of residential structures but also endangers the lives of residents, including women and children.
Legal recourse has been pursued by some residents, with a lawsuit filed to restrain further damage from the construction activities.
While acknowledging the need for infrastructure development in the Guzape district, Achuha argued that it should not come at the expense of human lives, citing constitutional provisions safeguarding the sanctity of life. He accused Gilmor Engineering Limited of violating fundamental human rights and environmental regulations.
