In a distressing turn of events, Akomolafe Henrich Bankole, a dedicated poultry farm owner in Lokogoma, Abuja, has been left devastated after his N150 million investment was destroyed without any prior notice. The incident, which he shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, has sparked outrage as videos of the demolition circulate widely, drawing attention to the painful destruction of not only property but also the lives of over 5,000 birds.
Bankole, who expressed his anguish and anger in the post, captioned one of his videos:
"I am heartbroken & angry. Yesterday, my N150 million investment in a poultry farm located in Lokogoma, Abuja, was DESTROYED by the guys from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). NO WARNING, no prior notice, just pure destruction and over 5,000 birds are dead."
I am heartbroken & angry.
— AKOMOLAFE Henrich Bankole (@henrich_banks) September 8, 2024
Yesterday, my N150 million investment in a poultry farm located in Lokogoma, Abuja, was DESTROYED by the guys from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
NO WARNING, no prior notice, just pure destruction and over 5,000 birds are dead. pic.twitter.com/zdbKAc428S
The Sudden Demolition
According to Bankole, the FCDA, responsible for urban planning and development within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), demolished the farm without prior communication or warning. The move has raised questions about due process and the treatment of small business owners within the capital city. Poultry farming is not just a business for many like Bankole, but a source of livelihood that contributes to local food production and employment. Losing such an investment overnight is a catastrophic blow to both the owner and the community.
Economic and Emotional Impact
The poultry farm, which Bankole had invested over N150 million in, was a major operation. The destruction has led to the death of over 5,000 birds, wiping out months, if not years, of hard work. This kind of loss is not only financial but emotional, as poultry farmers nurture their animals and rely on them for a steady income.
Bankole’s pain was evident in his social media posts, and his words have resonated with many Nigerians, who sympathize with the harsh reality he now faces. Losing N150 million in a single day is no small feat, and the lack of warning or legal notice only adds salt to the wound.
Public Outcry
His video posts have gained traction, sparking debates about the actions of the FCDA and the treatment of entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Many have voiced their support, condemning the authorities for what appears to be a high-handed approach. Others have raised concerns about the need for clearer communication between regulatory bodies and business owners, especially when it comes to enforcement actions like demolitions.
The Way Forward
While the full circumstances surrounding the demolition may still unfold, one thing is clear: Akomolafe Henrich Bankole’s situation is a stark reminder of the risks faced by business owners in Nigeria. Whether it’s through government policies or urban planning regulations, there is a need for authorities to handle such issues with fairness and transparency. The story serves as a call for better processes and protections for those who invest their time, resources, and passion into building businesses that not only sustain them but also contribute to the economy.
Bankole’s story is still developing, and many are waiting to see if the FCDA will issue a response or explanation for their actions. For now, Bankole’s heartbreak is shared by many who understand the depth of his loss.
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