By Daniel Tyokua
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Tuesday, led security operatives and some senior officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to demolish illegal structures on the road corridor at Gishiri village slowing down the ongoing construction of arterial road N16 to Jahi in Kàtampe District.
He said his administration had talks with the community leaders and offered compensation and relocation alternatives to affected residents.
Wike regretted that despite government’s efforts to settle owners of affected structures failed as the villagers opposed the road project.
“Well, you realize 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 said.
The minister explained 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 stressed 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 pledged FCTA’s commitment to ensure that the road project is completed as scheduled, adding that affected residents must work with the authorities to finalize their relocation arrangements.
