Wike Orders Demolition of Scavengers’ Colony in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern directive for the demolition of the scavengers’ colony situated along the road corridor running through Mabushi, Jahi, and Kado Districts. The decision came during an official visit by Mr. Wike to the area referred to as ‘Road N12’ in Mabushi District of the FCT.

During his visit, the Minister identified the colony behind the Minister’s Quarters in Mabushi District as a “threat” to the city’s security. This area had been taken over by scavengers, locally known as ‘Baban Bola,’ including mechanics and furniture makers.

Accompanied by a combined team of security personnel and senior officials from the FCT Administration, Minister Wike emphasized the need to rid the city of criminal elements. He also issued a clear warning against planting trees in areas earmarked for government development, stressing that compensation would not be granted for such trees.

In no uncertain terms, he instructed the Development Control Department and the Federal Capital Development Authority to clear the entire area and initiate preliminary roadwork.

“You should not compensate them. This is a hideout for criminals, and the communities should stop planting trees in the area. These are the kind of things you see that people commit crimes, and then before you know it, they run down here for cover, and people will say, ‘Oh, FCT is not safe,'” declared Mr. Wike.

The Minister reassured the residents of the FCT that the government was committed to reducing crime and enhancing security in the region.

Mukhtar Galadima, the coordinator of the Federal Capital Territory City Management Task Team, emphasized the urgency of addressing illegal activities in the face of the nation’s security challenges, stating, “With the security challenges across the country, illegal activities of this nature will not be allowed to continue. That is why we are not giving consideration to compensation; we have to secure the place.”