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 action forms 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. He added that the inability to properly identify occupants of the settlement posed a serious security risk.
Settlement poses security threat
During the inspection, Wike questioned how security agencies could effectively monitor or identify people residing in the illegal settlement, noting that such locations often serve as safe havens for criminal elements.
He described the settlement as a “time bomb” and insisted that the FCT Administration would not tolerate criminal hideouts within the nation’s capital, stressing that ensuring the safety of residents remains a priority.
The minister maintained that the government would continue to identify and dismantle illegal settlements being used to harbour criminal suspects.
Police, development officials directed to act
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 individuals using illegal settlements to facilitate criminal activities would face the full weight of the law, adding that authorities would not hesitate to take decisive action against offenders.
The minister said security agencies would sustain surveillance operations to prevent criminals from establishing new hideouts within the Federal Capital Territory.
Part of broader security campaign
According to Wike, the demolition exercise is part of the FCT Administration’s broader strategy to dismantle criminal enclaves, improve public safety and safeguard lives and property across Abuja.
He said the administration has intensified efforts to identify locations being used by criminal elements, noting that the government would continue working with security agencies to tackle insecurity.
The minister reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that residents of the Federal Capital Territory live in a secure environment free from criminal threats.