The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to remove illegal settlements, particularly shanties that are seen as a security threat and are blocking important development projects in the city.
Senior Special Assistant for Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT minister, Lere Olayinka, disclosed this information in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
He emphasized that efforts to tackle areas where criminals are hiding will continue.
The FCTA expressed concern over security issues in parts of the Durumi District, and in Area 1 of Garki District.
The statement noted a rise in serious crimes like robbery, car theft, drug dealing, and other violent activities that pose risks to peaceful residents.
To address these challenges, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has formed a committee that includes security agencies, FCTA officials, civil society groups, and representatives from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The statement said that shanties in Area 1 and Durumi not only block legal landowners from using their properties but have also become hideouts for criminals.
“These criminals include kidnappers and drug traffickers.
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“Just three months ago, during a police operation in Area 1, over 120 suspects were arrested, including those involved in the drug trade and armed robbery,” the statement added.
It said items recovered during the operation include stolen vehicles and motorcycles, as well as ATM cards that had been snatched from victims.
Olayinka mentioned that some shanties in the area had previously been cleared, but the illegal settlers have returned, making it unsafe for law-abiding citizens.
He pointed out that many of the makeshift homes are built on land that has been owned for over 20 years, preventing rightful owners and government agencies from using their land.
He assured that clearing the shanties from the city center is already underway, and preparations to clear those in Area 1 and Durumi, will happen very soon.
