Angry Protests Erupt In Abuja Over FCT Minister’s Mass Demolitions

Reports indicate that Wike had previously authorized a task force, “Operation Sweep,” to demolish Ruga and other communities in the city to rid the area of perceived criminal activities and nuisances.

The protest was led by prominent lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju, alongside Vincent Martins Otse (also known as VeryDarkMark), who accused the demolition of being driven by malicious intent.

Adeyanju expressed concern over the destruction, claiming that many homes were set on fire and property worth millions of naira was lost. He appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider the suffering of those displaced from northern states like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, where insecurity has already forced many residents to flee.

“The demolition is unjustifiable. We call on President Tinubu to act on behalf of the displaced, vulnerable residents who have already suffered enough. These are mostly artisans trying to survive. It is excessive to evict them without any compensation,” Adeyanju said.

He further criticized the decision to allocate the demolished land to wealthier individuals, calling it a move that undermines the public interest. “These communities are far from the main road, and there’s no reason to destroy their homes and hand over the land to the rich.”

Otse also voiced his concern, noting that the demolitions would have severe social and economic consequences for Abuja. “These people are now homeless at a time when the country is already going through difficult times. They are being evicted without compensation, and the elites seem to disregard the plight of the poor.”

The protest continues to call for an end to the demolitions and demands action from the federal government to protect the displaced residents.