Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of an illegal settlement near Karmajiji in the Kukwaba District of Abuja, describing it as a suspected hideout for criminals operating within the nation’s capital.
Wike issued the directive on Friday after leading security operatives to the settlement shortly after the FCT Security Committee meeting, saying the move was part of renewed efforts to strengthen security and dismantle criminal enclaves across the territory.
The minister said intelligence reports had identified the shanties as a refuge for suspected criminals who allegedly retreat there after carrying out attacks in different parts of the FCT.
“Look at the area. You don’t even know who the occupants are. How do you identify them? How do you know where to locate them? And this is inside the city,” Wike said during the inspection.
Describing the settlement as a major security threat, he added: “This is a time bomb. There’s no way we can allow this. The FCT Administration will not allow criminal hideouts to thrive in Abuja.”
Wike directed the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, to work with the Director of the Department of Development Control to ensure the immediate demolition of the illegal structures.
He warned that anyone using such settlements to facilitate criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
According to the minister, the demolition forms part of the FCT Administration’s broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, improve public safety and safeguard residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining security operations across Abuja, stressing that protecting lives and property remains a top priority.
