Residents of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, have taken to the streets to protest the ongoing mass demolitions ordered by Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These demolitions have left thousands of families without homes or businesses.
While the government claims the operation is necessary to restore Abuja’s master plan, many affected residents argue that it has brought them hardship and left them with nowhere to go.
Why the Mass Demolitions Ordered by Wike Are Taking Place
Minister Nyesom Wike explained that the mass demolitions ordered by Wike are meant to reclaim illegally occupied lands and clean up the city.
According to him, restoring Abuja’s original master plan will make the city better organized, with improved roads, housing, and public services. He also emphasized that reducing overcrowding will help the city grow sustainably.
However, many residents disagree. They believe that the mass demolitions ordered by Wike are unfair because they were not given proper notice, relocation options, or affordable housing alternatives.
“It feels like we are being punished for being poor,” said a resident of one demolished area.
How the Mass Demolitions Ordered by Wike Impact Residents
The hardest-hit communities include low-income settlements like the Ruga community, where thousands of people have already lost their homes.
The mass demolitions ordered by Wike have severely disrupted the lives of families living in these areas. Many of these residents work within the city and cannot afford to relocate far away.
One resident from Ruga explained the struggle: “Our homes are gone, and we are told to leave, but where are we supposed to go? The government must give us a fair solution.”
Many others in similar situations say they are willing to work with the government but need alternatives that consider their livelihoods.
Growing Protests Against the Mass Demolitions Ordered by Wike
@Verydarkman/X
The ongoing demolitions have sparked widespread protests across the FCT. Activists such as Adeyanju and VeryDarkMan have joined residents in calling for justice.
During a protest, Adeyanju told the crowd, “The mass demolitions ordered by Wike have left families in the streets. This is not right. People deserve dignity, housing, and a proper plan.”
Protesters are demanding that the FCT administration either stop the demolitions or provide relocation options for those affected.
The Government’s Position on the Mass Demolitions Ordered by Wike
Minister Wike remains firm in his decision, stating that the mass demolitions ordered by Wike are necessary to restore Abuja’s urban plan. He insists that illegal structures must be removed to prevent overcrowding and ensure the city’s development.
While the FCT administration has promised to support displaced residents, no clear plan for relocation or affordable housing has been shared.
Residents and activists argue that development should not come at the cost of displacing vulnerable people. They are calling for a balance between urban planning and the protection of human rights.
Calls for Fair Solutions Amid the Mass Demolitions Ordered by Wike
As protests grow louder, many Nigerians are urging the government to take a more humane approach. Social media platforms have amplified the voices of those affected, with hashtags like #StopAbujaDemolitions and #HousingForAll trending nationwide.
Activists argue that the mass demolitions ordered by Wike disproportionately affect low-income families who cannot afford to rebuild or relocate. They are calling for affordable housing solutions and fair treatment of those living in informal settlements.
A Path Forward for Abuja’s Residents
The challenge remains: how can the FCT administration achieve its vision for Abuja’s growth without harming its most vulnerable residents?
Many believe Wike’s mass demolitions must be paused until a proper plan for relocation and housing is developed.
As protests continue, affected families and activists hope the government will listen to their concerns and find a solution that includes everyone.
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