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The FCT Minister accused the community chiefs of not making good use of the time given to them to evacuate their belongings.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday ordered the demolition of houses in the right of way of the ongoing road construction in Gishiri, under the Katampe area of the nation’s capital.
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Wike, who personally supervised the demolition, was seen furiously addressing the community chief saying, “We gave you time.”
Some of the residents tried to resist and stop the excavators from demolishing their properties but were dispersed with tear gas by security operatives.
Briefing journalists, the minister explained that compensation was offered to the residents, but rather than accepting it, they turned it down leaving the FCT Administration with no choice.
Security operatives observe the demolition of houses in Gishiri, Katampe area of Abuja on March 11, 2025.
He also disclosed that a grace period of three months was given to them to evacuate so that the road construction could continue but instead of listening to them, they turned a deaf ear to their calls.
“I have visited this site more than four times and have engaged with community leaders and their chiefs. It is crucial for them to cooperate with the government so that CGC, our contractor, can complete this road by May,” Wike said.
“I made it clear to the traditional ruler that the work must proceed. No government will stand by while individuals undermine a project that serves the public good. I have personally come here to oversee this demolition, and I want them to understand that things have changed.
The FCT Minister accused the community chiefs of not making good use of the time given to them to evacuate their belongings.
“We have provided over two to three months for them to prepare. We have also offered compensation and a resettlement plan. What more could we do?”
The Gishiri road was flagged off in October 2024 and is expected to be completed in May 2025 to form part of President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office celebration.
