National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed that the government will continue with its demolition of shanties and illegal structures across Abuja, vowing not to succumb to blackmail from individuals seeking to maintain the status quo.
Wike stated this during an emergency security council meeting on Sunday evening, after which he, along with security chiefs and journalists, visited the Ruga community in Wuye District. The visit followed clearance operations by town planning officials and security personnel in the area.
Reports had surfaced that a group of squatters, alongside a lawyer, had staged protests against the demolitions. However, the spokesperson for the community, Abba Garu, acknowledged that the residents were illegal squatters.
He also noted that previous administrations had carried out at least 22 demolitions in the area, but the squatters always returned.
Garu, who described the community as a “mini-Nigeria” due to its ethnic diversity, appealed to the government for compassion. In response, Wike asked him to nominate four other community members to meet with government officials to discuss possible solutions that would be humane.
Addressing the issue, Wike stated, “We have had numerous security threats in the FCT, and the security agencies are working around the clock to ensure Abuja remains safe.
This area has been identified as a hotspot for insecurity, and the presence of squatters here poses a major threat to national security.
With the rail line passing through this area, it’s like a buffer zone, and if we allow criminals to occupy it, it puts our transportation system at risk. This is government land, and while the government hasn’t yet decided what to do with it, some people have taken it over, using it as a base for criminal activities.”
Wike further emphasised that while the government is committed to human rights and compassion, it will not allow hoodlums to take over public land.
He added, “We have made our position clear. No government worth its salt will fold its hands while criminals take over public spaces. We cannot continue to allow people whose identities are unknown to live in areas where crimes are planned and executed.”
The minister also warned that no new construction—whether temporary or permanent—would be allowed in the area moving forward. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the issue without being swayed by blackmail or intimidation.
“We will not be deterred by any form of blackmail, intimidation, or abuse. We are focused on our primary responsibility: to protect lives and property and ensure the securitya of Abuja,” Wike stated.
