The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his commitment to demolishing illegal settlements across Abuja, especially shanties deemed to pose security threats.
Speaking after a recent inspection of the demolished “Ruga” settlement in Wuye, Wike stressed that these actions, carried out by the Ministerial Task Force “Operation Sweep,” are necessary to protect the lives and properties of Abuja residents.
The demolished settlement, known as Ruga, was home to over 10,000 people, many of whom protested alongside Civil Society Organizations on Friday, demanding Wike’s resignation and claiming ancestral rights to the land. They argued that the settlement had been established by their forefathers. In response, Wike firmly stated that no amount of protest or external pressure would deter the government from its duty to ensure a secure and orderly city.
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Wike expressed concern that Ruga had been dismantled 22 times but continued to be rebuilt. He highlighted the critical security risks posed by such settlements, particularly due to Ruga’s proximity to essential infrastructure like rail lines. “Allowing an unregulated community here is a safety hazard,” he stated. “We cannot risk the lives of residents by tolerating these illegal settlements.”
Reiterating his zero-tolerance stance, Wike warned occupants against reconstructing the demolished structures, emphasizing the FCT Administration’s responsibility to maintain security. He urged community representatives to select five delegates to meet with government officials to discuss alternative solutions.
Garo, a spokesperson for the residents, shared that many occupants have been in the area for almost four decades and, despite previous demolitions, have returned each time due to a lack of other housing options. He described the community as a “mini-Nigeria,” housing people from diverse backgrounds. Garo appealed to the minister for alternative land, acknowledging the people’s limited options.
Wike assured that the government is evaluating various locations, including shanty sites, for potential repurposing into bus terminals and other city-use projects to maintain Abuja’s safety and order.
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