Wike Orders Demolition of Illegal 'Ruga' Settlement Over Security Concerns
By Zagazola Makama
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate evacuation and demolition of an illegal settlement known as "Ruga" in Kukwaba District, describing it as a major security threat within Abuja.
The directive was issued on Friday after the FCT Security Council meeting and an inspection of the settlement, located near Karmajiji, a few kilometres from the Abuja City Gate.
Wike said the shanty community had become a hideout for criminals who allegedly retreat there after carrying out attacks, warning that the continued existence of the settlement posed a serious threat to residents.
Describing the area as "a time bomb waiting to explode," the minister directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and the Director of Development Control to immediately clear the illegal structures.
He reiterated that the FCT Administration would not tolerate illegal settlements serving as safe havens for criminal elements, stressing its commitment to protecting lives and property across the nation's capital.
Before visiting the settlement, the minister inspected the ongoing construction of the access road to the FCT Fire Service Station along Arterial Road SI, linking Ring Road II in Kaura District to Oladipo Diya Way in Gaduwa District.
