Illegal occupants will be thrown out, poverty is not an excuse - Wike says as he vows to demolish shanties in FCT

Nyesom Wike, Hon. Minister, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory 

Wike Declares War on Illegal Settlements in FCT, Says Poverty Is No Excuse for Criminality

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a firm warning to illegal occupants residing in shanties across Abuja, declaring that they will be evicted as part of a sweeping effort to restore order and enhance security in the capital city. 

Speaking during his monthly ministerial press briefing, Wike emphasized that poverty cannot be used as a justification for unlawful occupation or criminal behavior, insisting that the government will not tolerate lawlessness under any guise.

Wike expressed deep concern over the proliferation of makeshift settlements, which he described as breeding grounds for insecurity, including kidnapping, robbery, and other criminal activities. He noted that these shanties not only deface the city but also serve as hideouts for individuals who deliberately evade detection. According to the minister, criminals do not reside in identifiable homes but rather in obscure locations where they cannot be easily traced, making illegal settlements a serious threat to public safety.

The minister criticized landowners who fail to develop their properties, thereby creating opportunities for squatters and criminal elements to take over. He questioned the rationale behind leaving lands undeveloped, especially when such negligence contributes to the city’s security challenges. Wike stated that those claiming ownership of land must take responsibility by developing it, rather than allowing it to become a haven for unlawful occupants.

Addressing concerns about the plight of residents who live in shanties due to economic hardship, Wike maintained that while poverty is a global issue, it should not be exploited to justify criminality. He cited examples from other countries, including China, where poverty exists but does not serve as an excuse for making others uncomfortable or engaging in violent acts. He stressed that the government cannot build houses for every citizen and that individuals must seek lawful means of accommodation.

Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to demolishing illegal structures and reclaiming the city from unauthorized settlers. He warned that no amount of blackmail or pressure would deter the FCT Administration from carrying out its mandate. The minister also referenced previous demolition exercises, including those in Gishiri under the Katampe area, where occupants were given a grace period to vacate but failed to comply.

In his remarks, Wike underscored the importance of security as a fundamental responsibility of any government. He declared that any administration unable to protect its citizens has no business being in power. As Abuja continues to grapple with urban challenges, the minister’s stance signals a determined push to sanitize the city and reinforce the rule of law, even as debates around housing, poverty, and human rights persist.

Wike’s message was clear: the FCT will not serve as a refuge for criminality, and poverty will not be accepted as a shield for unlawful behavior.