The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced that the ongoing demolition of shanties and illegal structures in Abuja will continue, saying that the exercise is aimed at improving security and restoring order in the nation’s capital.
During his monthly media chat with journalists on Monday, Wike emphasized that the demolition is a critical part of the government’s commitment to public safety.
He said the demolished shanties serve as hideouts for criminals, including those involved in “one-chance” attacks and other security threats.
Wike dismissed claims that the occupants were poor, arguing that criminals often seek out such places to avoid detection. “We cannot joke with security,” he said. “Shanties make it possible for criminals to settle and cause problems in the city. We are going to make sure that all illegal occupants anywhere are thrown out. Security is key.”
He cautioned against using poverty as an excuse for criminal activity, stating, “There is poverty all over the world, but that does not give you room to make people uncomfortable, to kidnap and kill people. Let nobody use that as an excuse.”
On the issue of government support for vulnerable individuals, the minister highlighted that the FCT Administration has established markets for traders, but many choose to sell on the streets, leading to refuse dumping and defacing the city.
He noted that people often take advantage of government amenities without utilizing them properly.
The minister also addressed the idea of providing shelter for the poor, describing it as unsustainable.
He argued that the FCT cannot be responsible for providing housing for citizens who migrate from their home states. “How can you sustain it? No government provides shelter for all its citizens,” he said, adding that while the government is working to reduce the housing deficit, it cannot be expected to solve the problem entirely.
