Barr. Wike explains ongoing demolitions, announces new projects, and pays tribute to late FCTA Head of Service
By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Monday, September 1, 2025, outlined the administration’s ongoing security, development, and governance plans during his monthly media chat with journalists in Abuja.
Addressing the controversial demolition of shanties and illegal structures, Wike emphasized that the exercise is a key step in boosting security and restoring urban order.
“Shanties make it possible for criminals to settle and cause problems in the city. We are going to make sure that all illegal occupants anywhere are thrown out. Security is key,” Wike said. He dismissed claims that poverty justified criminal activity, adding: “There is poverty all over the world, but that does not give you room to make people uncomfortable, to kidnap and kill people. Let nobody use that as an excuse.”
On government support for vulnerable individuals, Wike highlighted that the FCT Administration has established markets for traders, but noted that many prefer selling on streets, which contributes to refuse dumping and urban disorder. Regarding shelter provision, he stressed the limits of government responsibility: “People leave their states all over and come here and you tell me that I should carry the responsibility. No government provides shelter for all its citizens. We must be realistic.”
The Minister also shared updates on upcoming and ongoing projects across the FCT, highlighting initiatives aimed at youth development through sports. He announced that project flag-offs will soon take place in Gwagwalada and Gwarimpa, while a new road project in Karu is scheduled for Wednesday, September 3, 2025, and a Magistrate Court in Jabi will be flagged off Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
Addressing the health sector, Wike acknowledged concerns from resident doctors but emphasized resource allocation challenges, stating that the FCT’s monthly wage bill for over 40,000 workers exceeds N12 billion, while allocations from the federation account are insufficient. He urged residents to pay taxes to strengthen the territory’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
On political developments, the Minister commented on the recent local government elections in Rivers State, defending the process as “free, fair, and conducted in accordance with the law.” He dismissed criticisms from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi as “hypocritical” and “born of ignorance.” Wike also expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in the 2027 elections, reiterating his support based on principle rather than personal ambition.
In a solemn moment, Wike mourned the passing of Mrs. Grace Adayilo, the first indigenous Head of the FCTA Civil Service, who died in the early hours of Monday, September 1, 2025. “She was very hardworking and dedicated to the success of the FCT Administration. Her tenure was recently extended by President Tinubu,” the Minister said.
Wike described the death as “very painful” and extended his condolences to her family, friends, and the indigenous people of Abuja, noting that he would have postponed the media chat had he known earlier.
The media parley, held in Abuja, provided a comprehensive update on the FCT Administration’s security measures, infrastructure development, governance priorities, and human capital matters, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a safer, more orderly, and progressively developing capital territory.
