A decorated Nigerian war veteran, Air Commodore Abayomi Balogun, has had his Abuja restaurant demolished by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) in a move many are describing as “targeted humiliation”. Balogun, a hero of the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone, had his Jazz and Blues Entertainment lounge razed to the ground by FCDA bulldozers led by Mr. Mukhtar Galadima on July 10.

The FCDA claims the demolition was due to the restaurant being a “shanty and haven for criminals”, and that quit notices were served in 2024, January 2025, and June 2025. However, Balogun and his supporters vehemently deny these allegations, saying the restaurant was a hub for community activities and a source of support for abandoned veterans.

According to eyewitnesses, the demolition was carried out without notice, with bulldozers arriving at the premises and leveling the property while scavengers looted valuables. Balogun described the incident as devastating, saying he was not given any opportunity to remove his belongings or documents.

Many have questioned why the FCDA targeted Balogun’s restaurant specifically, while leaving other facilities in the Panorama Recreational Park untouched. Documents obtained by Paparazzi Online show that the FCDA’s letters on “illegalities” were addressed to the park’s management, not Balogun or his business.

Balogun’s foundation, Green Heroes Foundation, provides support to military widows, orphans of fallen heroes, and needy ex-soldiers battling PTSD. The demolition of his restaurant has sparked outrage, with many calling for the FCDA to explain its actions.