On Wednesday, in Abuja, the Department of Development Control under the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) took action by demolishing shanties that were illegally constructed on a road corridor in Wuse Zone 3.
Mr. Felix Obuah, the Coordinator of the Council, spoke to reporters after the operation, stating that the purpose of this action was to eliminate all unauthorized shanties within the city.
The shanties, known to their inhabitants as Unguwan Yan Lambu, had been standing for over 27 years. Despite being demolished multiple times in the past, they were rebuilt by the occupants.
Obuah emphasized that the area was designated for a road corridor, and the unlawful occupation not only posed a security risk but also marred the aesthetic appeal of the city.
He highlighted, “It is also concerning that criminals and troublemakers have turned this spot into a safe haven. Hence, we made the decision to clear out all shanties and evict the lawbreakers who have seized control of the road corridor to restore Abuja’s charm.”
“We cannot allow this to persist. Our goal is to enhance the city’s beauty and transform Abuja into a metropolis that we can all take pride in,” he further added.
He also mentioned plans to establish a task force to prevent any of the unauthorized occupants from reconstructing shanties in the area.