By Becky Momodu
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of an illegal settlement in Kukwaba District, near the City Gate in Abuja, citing security concerns and the need to protect the Federal Capital Territory from criminal activities.
Wike gave the directive on Friday during an enforcement inspection of the area, shortly after a security meeting with relevant security agencies. Accompanied by security operatives and officials of the FCT Administration, the minister described the growing settlement as a serious security risk that could undermine public safety if left unchecked.
According to him, intelligence reports indicated that the illegal structures had become a hideout for suspected criminals who allegedly retreated there after carrying out attacks in parts of the city.
The minister said the FCT Administration would not tolerate the proliferation of unauthorised developments or illegal settlements that could serve as safe havens for criminal elements within the nation’s capital.
He directed the FCT Police Command and the Department of Development Control to work closely in identifying and removing illegal structures while strengthening enforcement of the Abuja Master Plan.
Wike stressed that unchecked urban disorder and the spread of illegal settlements posed significant security challenges, warning that such developments could become a “time bomb” if decisive action was not taken.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to restoring order, improving security and ensuring orderly physical development across the FCT.
The demolition directive forms part of ongoing joint enforcement operations by the FCT Administration targeting illegal settlements, unauthorised building projects and other structures found to be in violation of approved planning regulations.
The administration also reiterated that enforcement actions, including demolitions and the recovery of illegally occupied sites, would continue as part of efforts to safeguard residents and preserve the Abuja Master Plan.