In a firm stance against illegal settlements in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, declared on Sunday that all shanties in Abuja will be removed, emphasizing that no amount of protest or resistance would deter the government’s plan. The statement was made during a visit to a shanty village in the Wuye area, where Wike addressed the occupants and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s capital.
Wike’s comments come amid growing concerns over the rise of informal settlements in key areas of Abuja. According to the Minister, the existence of such settlements poses significant security risks, particularly as many of the structures are temporary and have no identifiable residents. “We have had issues of insecurity in the FCT, and the security agencies have been working 24 hours to make sure that Abuja is safe,” Wike said, underscoring the government’s dedication to addressing the problem.
The Minister highlighted that certain locations, such as the Wuye area, which is close to a railway line, represent particularly hazardous environments. He warned that allowing informal settlements to remain in these areas could jeopardize the safety of the public and the efficiency of critical infrastructure, including train operations. “If we allow this kind of people to be here, it is a security threat to the operation of our trains, and no right-thinking government will allow that,” Wike added.
The issue of unauthorized shanties has become a growing concern in Abuja, with critics claiming that the government’s demolition plan could leave many people homeless without viable alternatives. However, Wike made it clear that the government would not succumb to blackmail or intimidation from any group. “No government worth its salt will fold its hands and allow this place to be occupied by hoodlums or people no one can account for,” he stated resolutely.
Despite the tough stance, Wike also offered some relief to the affected residents. He instructed that the occupants of the Wuye shanty village appoint five representatives to meet with the FCT Ministry on Tuesday to discuss possible assistance for those displaced by the upcoming demolition. This meeting is expected to explore options for helping the residents find alternative accommodation or support.
In response, Abba Garu, one of the leaders of the Wuye settlement, expressed understanding of the government’s position but pleaded for assistance in securing new shelter. Garu admitted that the settlement was built on unoccupied land, and the residents had erected temporary structures there due to the lack of available housing in the city. “We just put up these temporary structures because the land was not occupied, and we have lived here for years,” he explained.
Despite the pleas for assistance, Garu assured the Minister that the residents would not rebuild their homes after the demolitions. He emphasized that the community understands the importance of addressing security concerns, even if it meant giving up their current living arrangements.
