Despite Protests, Wike Asserts Commitment To Ongoing Abuja Demolitions

Despite Protests, Wike Asserts Commitment To Ongoing Abuja DemolitionsReeThe Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has made it clear that his administration will not be swayed by criticism or protests from civil society groups and activists calling for an end to ongoing demolitions in Abuja. Wike’s statement followed a visit to the recently demolished Ruga settlement, where he was accompanied by security chiefs after a security council meeting on Sunday evening.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

This comes after a protest by some of the affected settlers, supported by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju and controversial social media critic Vincent Martins Otse (aka VeryDarkMan), who called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the demolition efforts. The protesters raised concerns over the displacement of residents, urging the government to halt the demolitions.

Despite the public outcry, Wike maintained that the primary focus of his administration was the protection of lives and property in the FCT. He emphasized that the goal is to make Abuja one of the best cities in the world, regardless of the criticisms.

“No amount of blackmail, intimidation, or abuse will stop us from doing our job,” Wike stated. “We are not concerned with what others say, whether they claim to be part of civil society or not. Our duty is to safeguard Abuja, ensuring it becomes a world-class city.”

Wike also warned residents not to rebuild any structures, whether temporary or permanent, in the affected areas until the government has finalized its plans. He added that several other informal settlements across the city would also be demolished to make way for new bus terminals, aiming to improve the city’s orderliness and functionality.

“We will not allow anyone to build here until we make a final decision on the land. We’ve already identified other areas with shanties, which we plan to convert into bus terminals,” Wike explained. “This is part of our broader plan to create a better, more organized environment for residents and businesses.”

The minister further directed that five representatives from the affected communities meet with security officials and the Land and Development Control directors to discuss possible solutions and recommendations for the displaced settlers.

Abba Garu, a spokesperson for the affected settlers, appealed to the minister for assistance, highlighting that the recent demolition was the 22nd in a series of similar actions by previous administrations. Garu emphasized that the community, home to over 10,000 people, was not in conflict with the government over land ownership but was simply asking for help.

“We are not disputing the government’s right to the land. What we’re asking for is shelter, a place where we can live with dignity,” Garu said. “This community is a microcosm of Nigeria, with people from all tribes living together. We are simply asking for assistance to be able to continue living in peace.”

Wike’s stance on the demolitions remains firm as he continues to prioritize city development and security over the protests.

For more information on this article and other related posts from Bushradiogist, please join our WhatsApp channel by clicking this link https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaUumOODTkK7AZL1Fw3o. For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 090 1907 0863 on WhatsApp.