The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, personally supervised the demolition of sections of the Gishiri community in the Katampe District of Abuja on Tuesday. The exercise was carried out to clear structures allegedly built along a designated road corridor, a move Wike deemed necessary after repeated warnings to residents failed to yield compliance.
Reason for Demolition
According to Wike, the FCT Administration had awarded a contract for constructing a dual carriageway from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway, by NICON Junction, to Wole Soyinka Way. The project, scheduled for completion in May, was being hindered by the presence of unauthorized structures. Despite prior notices and government-provided compensation plans, many residents refused to relocate.
Failed Relocation Efforts
The minister expressed frustration over the residents’ reluctance to accept compensation and move to an alternative site. He recalled multiple engagements with community leaders, urging them to cooperate to prevent delays.
“I have been here more than four times,” Wike said. “We have sat down with the community leaders and told them the need to cooperate with the government so that the contractor will be able to complete the project and hand it over by May.”
Despite assurances and an additional grace period requested by traditional rulers, the relocation did not progress, prompting the government to take decisive action.
Government’s Position on Infrastructure Development
Wike emphasized that the government could not allow a small group of individuals to stall a public project meant for the greater good.
“No government would fold its arms and allow people to sabotage a project meant for the public interest,” he stated.
Even while attending a meeting in Milan, Italy, Wike said he had communicated with community leaders, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring the demolition proceeded as planned.
“The government has done what is humanly possible by giving the affected persons more than three months to do what is right,” he noted.
Next Steps for Affected Residents
Wike directed the FCT’s director of compensation and resettlement to engage with the community and explore possible resettlement options. However, he was firm that those who rejected government provisions would have to deal with the consequences of their decisions.
“If they don’t want it, it is their business,” he remarked.
Resistance from Residents and Security Intervention
The demolition exercise was met with resistance from some residents who reacted by throwing stones at bulldozer operators. Security forces, including police officers, had to intervene using teargas to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Conclusion
The demolition in Gishiri highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and community displacement in Abuja. While the government insists that infrastructure expansion is in the public interest, affected residents argue that their needs and rights must be adequately addressed. The incident underscores the broader challenge of balancing modernization with fair resettlement policies.
