I’ll demolish structures on arterial road N16 in Abuja ‘s Gishiri – Wike 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the demolition of structures obstructing the ongoing construction of arterial road N16 in Gishiri Village, Katampe District.

Speaking during a visit to the site, Wike stated that the government had engaged with the community leaders multiple times, offering compensation and relocation alternatives to affected residents. However, despite these assurances, some structures remained in place, hindering the progress of the project.

“Well, you realise that I have been here more than four times. We have sat down with the community leaders and their chiefs. I have told them the need for them to cooperate with the government so that the contractor, CGC, will be able to complete this road and hand it over by May,” Wike stated.

The minister further noted that the traditional ruler of the area had requested a one-week grace period, during which compensation funds were made available, and a relocation site was arranged. However, despite these efforts, illegal construction continued in the area.

Wike added that the government would not tolerate any actions that undermine public interest, asserting that the demolition was necessary for the timely completion of the road.

“I did inform the traditional ruler that this work has to go on. No government will sit back and allow people to sabotage a public interest project,” he said. “I personally came here to supervise this demolition, and I want them to know that it’s no longer business as usual.”

Responding to concerns about the humanitarian impact of the demolition, Wike maintained that ample time had been given for residents to relocate.

“We’ve given them more than two, three months. We have also provided compensation and a resettlement plan. What more is human than that?” he questioned.

The minister reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to ensuring that the road project is completed as scheduled, adding that affected residents must work with the authorities to finalise their relocation arrangements.