The Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, today led the demolition of structures obstructing the construction of Arterial Road N16 in Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja. The move is part of the government’s efforts to ensure the timely completion of the road project, which is critical to public infrastructure development in the area.
During a press briefing at the site, Minister Wike revealed that residents had been served eviction notices well in advance and were informed of the need for their cooperation. He emphasized that this collaboration was essential for the contractor, Messrs CGC, to complete the road and deliver it by the end of May.
However, the Minister expressed disappointment that residents rejected the government’s compensation offer and relocation assistance, despite being granted a one-week extension as requested by the village chief. This refusal, he noted, had significantly delayed the project.
Wike stressed that the road project#FCT, #AbujaDevelopment, #RoadConstruction, #PublicInterest, #GovernmentProjects, #Wike, #GishiriVillage, #UrbanDevelopment, #Infrastructure, #Compensation, #Relocation, is in the public’s overriding interest and not a case of land acquisition for private development. He issued a stern warning that the FCT Administration would not tolerate actions that sabotage projects meant to benefit the public.
The Minister personally oversaw the demolition to send a clear message that obstructing public projects would no longer be tolerated. He stated, *“We served them with the eviction notice and explained the need for their cooperation to enable the contractor, CGC, to complete this road and hand it over by May.”
He further explained that the traditional ruler had requested a one-week extension, which was granted. Compensation funds were also made available, and the government promised to assist with relocation. Despite these measures, residents refused to cooperate, leading to further delays.
*“No government will fold its arms and allow individuals to sabotage a project meant for the public good. This is not about acquiring land for private development,”* Wike asserted.
Responding to concerns about the demolition’s impact on residents and public perception, the Minister clarified that ample time had been provided for residents to vacate. He emphasized that the government would not halt a critical project for the sake of a few individuals, especially after granting them sufficient time and making compensation funds available.
*“Enough time has been given. Are we to halt government work because of a few people? No. We have given them over two to three months. I cannot allow this project to stall,” he said.
Wike also reiterated the government’s commitment to relocating affected residents and providing compensation. He urged them to cooperate with the FCT Department of Resettlement and Compensation to finalize their relocation arrangements.
“We promised to relocate them and even provided compensation funds, but they refused to cooperate. This cannot be allowed to stop the project,” he added.
The demolition exercise underscores the government’s determination to prioritize public interest and ensure the timely completion of critical infrastructure projects. Minister Wike’s direct involvement highlights the administration’s resolve to address obstacles and deliver on its developmental promises.
