The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing fair compensation to residents affected by the recent demolition of structures along the Arterial Road N16 corridor in Gishiri community, Katampe District, Abuja.
Wike made this pledge during a meeting with representatives of the affected residents, led by the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Monday, March 17, 2024.
Addressing concerns over the demolition exercise, the Minister clarified that the action was taken in the public interest to advance Abuja’s development into a world-class city. He emphasized that the construction of the Arterial Road N16 was not a personal agenda but a strategic initiative for the overall progress of the FCT.
“There is no intention to cause suffering,” Wike assured. “Government exists to serve the people, not to punish them. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is built on the Renewed Hope agenda, and we are committed to restoring confidence in governance. No one should think our goal is to make life difficult for them. That is not the case, and it will never be.”
Recognizing the financial difficulties faced by those affected, Wike disclosed that the initial compensation budget of ₦655 million had been increased to ₦1.3 billion to cushion the economic impact. He assured that all compensations would be paid based on government-approved valuation standards to ensure fairness and transparency.
The Minister issued a firm directive against any form of discrimination in the disbursement of compensation, particularly between indigenous and non-indigenous residents. He stressed that all rightful property owners must receive full payment, regardless of their origin.
“I have made it clear—there is no such thing as ‘non-indigenes’ when it comes to compensation. If a person owns property and a road project affects them, they deserve to be paid. No one will be denied their rightful dues,” Wike stated.
He further warned officials overseeing the compensation process against any form of malpractice. “Pay them their money, and pay them the exact amount. There will be no tolerance for shortchanging anyone,” he added.
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Wike also addressed reports of resistance from local leaders, particularly from the Chief of Gishiri, HRH Bala Akusu. Expressing disappointment, he reminded the Chief of previous agreements and warned against actions that could obstruct the road project’s completion. He stressed that the May 2024 deadline for the project must be met.
“We cannot allow anyone to delay progress. No amount of threats will stop this project. The President has directed that we carry out development with a human face, and we are doing just that. But that does not mean the work will not continue,” Wike declared.
The Minister also urged traditional rulers to support the administration’s efforts rather than making threats. He highlighted the inclusion of indigenous residents in key government positions, such as the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries, as proof of the administration’s commitment to fair representation.
“You have been given the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries—something that has never happened before. Instead of rallying behind the government, some are issuing threats. This is not acceptable,” he said.
During the meeting, Adamu Godwin Umar, a representative of the Gishiri youth group, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s commitment to compensation. However, he raised concerns about the proposed relocation site, describing it as a swampy area unsuitable for resettlement.
In response, Wike assured the residents that he would personally visit the proposed site on Wednesday to assess its suitability and address their concerns.
With the government determined to complete the Arterial Road N16 project as scheduled, the Minister urged all stakeholders to cooperate for the greater good of the FCT’s development.
