Wike supervises demolition of illegal structures in Abuja’s Gishiri community

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, supervised the demolition of parts of the Gishiri community in Katampe District, Abuja, to clear road corridors for a major infrastructure project.

The demolition was necessary for the completion of a dual carriageway from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (NICON Junction) to Wole Soyinka Way, expected to be finished by May.

Wike stated that compensation funds and a relocation site had been provided, but affected residents refused to move, delaying the project. “We have given them more than three months, yet work is not progressing,” he said.

He emphasized that the government would not allow a few individuals to sabotage public interest, adding that he personally came to enforce the directive. “It is not going to be business as usual,” Wike warned.

The minister recalled multiple meetings with community leaders, during which they pleaded for more time but failed to comply. “No government will fold its arms while its projects are stalled,” he added.

Security operatives, including police officers, had to use teargas to disperse angry residents who threw stones at the bulldozer operators.

Wike directed the FCT’s director of compensation and resettlement to consult the community and determine a final resolution.

“If they don’t want it, that’s their business,” he concluded.