Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has instructed the FCT Department of Development Control to demolish Ruga, an illegal settlement near Karmajiji in Kukwaba District, Abuja, which is suspected to be a hideout for criminals. Wike issued this directive after leading security operatives to the settlement following the FCT Security Committee Meeting on Friday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike explained that the order is part of the broader efforts to enhance security in the capital. Intelligence reports have indicated that individuals suspected of criminal activities often retreat to this settlement after carrying out attacks in various parts of the FCT.
Wike emphasized the difficulty in identifying the occupants of the area, stating, “Look at the area. You don’t even know who the occupants are. How do you identify them? How do you know where to locate them? And this is inside the city.” He further described the settlement as a “time bomb” and insisted that the FCT Administration would not tolerate criminal hideouts in Abuja.
He instructed the Commissioner of Police in FCT, Ahmed Sanusi, to collaborate with the Director of Development Control to carry out the demolition. The minister also warned that anyone found using such locations for criminal activities would face severe legal consequences.
According to the minister, the demolition is a part of the FCT Administration’s ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal enclaves, enhance public safety, and protect residents. Wike reiterated the administration’s dedication to maintaining security operations throughout the territory, emphasizing that the safety of lives and property remains a primary concern.