The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to clamp down on illegal car racing within residential neighborhoods across Abuja, saying that such activities pose a significant threat to public safety and the lives of innocent citizens.
Speaking during a routine project inspection Monday, Wike acknowledged that while the newly constructed and smooth road networks across the capital territory have drawn praise, motorists and thrill-seekers must not convert residential streets into racing tracks.
Addressing reports of reckless driving and organised street racing in residential layouts, the minister stated that civic rights have boundaries when public safety is compromised.
“First of all, they are trying to show how beautiful the roads are, but then they forget there are aspects of it that also pose danger to innocent citizens.
“I appeal to them to understand that their rights have limitations, and life is more important,” he stated.
While noting that the administration had not yet received a formal written petition regarding specific locations, Wike assured residents that immediate action would be taken through internal enforcement channels. The minister promised to engage the FCT Traffic Management section to enforce compliance.
He reiterated that high-speed car racing within residential neighborhoods will be strictly prohibited adding that the administration noted that motorsport enthusiasts must restrict speed events to designated motorsport tracks or approved non-residential areas.
“Rest assured that we will do everything possible to see that we don’t allow car racing within residential areas.
“But if it is on the highway, well, that we will not stop,” Wike added.