The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said poverty will not be accepted as an excuse for illegal occupation in Abuja, vowing that all shanty dwellers will be evicted.
Addressing journalists on Monday, Wike described makeshift settlements as illegal and detrimental to the city’s image, adding that they often provide cover for criminals linked to kidnapping, insecurity, and ‘one-chance’ activities.
He noted that some occupants encroach on road corridors reserved for infrastructure and later demand compensation when development begins. According to him, such practices threaten public safety and cannot be allowed to continue.
Wike stressed that protecting lives and property remains government’s top priority, warning that no amount of pressure will stop the FCT Administration from reclaiming the capital from unlawful settlers.
On concerns that many residents live in shanties due to the high cost of housing, Wike said it was unrealistic for the Federal Government to provide accommodation for every Nigerian.
