FCTA to clear shanties posing security threat, hampering developmental project

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to clear all illegal settlements in Abuja, particularly shanties that have become havens for criminals and are obstructing developmental projects. 

The FCTA expressed concern over security threats in areas like Durumi District, where high-level criminal activities such as robbery, carjacking, and drug peddling have been reported.

A statement by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, revealed that a recent operation in Area 1, Durumi, led to the arrest of over 120 miscreants, including drug peddlers, one-chance operators, carjackers, and armed robbers, while stolen vehicles, 79 motorcycles, and 155 ATM cards were also recovered. 

He, however, said that despite previous clearance efforts, the shanties have been rebuilt, and criminals have regrouped, thereby making the area uninhabitable for law-abiding citizens.

Olayinka disclosed that a Stakeholders Committee, which was set up by the FCTA to tackle the issue, has identified the shanties as operational bases for kidnappers, drug peddlers, and one-chance operators, adding that the FCTA is already clearing shanties in the City Centre, with plans to extend the exercise to Area 1, Durumi soon, to ensure a safer and more secure environment for residents.