The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday led the demolition of structures obstructing the construction of the Arterial Road N16 in Gishiri village, Katampe District, Abuja.
Speaking at the site, Wike emphasized that affected residents had been served eviction notices and urged to cooperate with the government to ensure the project’s timely completion. He reiterated that the road was of public interest and needed to be delivered by the end of May.
Despite a one-week extension granted at the request of the village chief, Wike expressed disappointment that the affected residents rejected government compensation and relocation offers, thereby delaying the project.
“The funds for compensation have been made available, and we also promised to provide an alternative location for relocation. Yet, despite these assurances, work was being impeded,” Wike said.
The minister made it clear that the FCT Administration would not tolerate any attempt to sabotage critical infrastructure projects, stressing that this was not a case of land acquisition for private development but a necessity for public good.
“Enough time has been given. We cannot halt a vital government project for a few individuals. More than two to three months have been provided for them to relocate,” he stated.
Wike urged the affected residents to cooperate with the FCT Department of Resettlement and Compensation to finalize their relocation process, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to compensating and relocating them fairly.
