Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has taken a decisive step by imposing a ban on street trading within Abuja. He accuses these street traders of not only contributing to insecurity but also engaging in activities that aid criminals by spying on individuals and providing them with crucial information. This prohibition was announced during an address to the leadership teams of both the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) on a Wednesday.
Wike's decision was prompted by his belief that street hawkers, including corn sellers, are directly contributing to the insecurity and criminal activities prevalent in the nation’s capital. He emphasizes the need to restore Abuja to its rightful state and points out that many areas are currently engulfed in darkness. The restoration of proper lighting is a priority for him. He further stresses the importance of maintaining high standards across different sectors, such as sanitation, and expresses his readiness to replace those who cannot meet these standards.
The Minister highlights the problems associated with street trading. He points out that sellers, particularly those selling corn, often dispose of their waste indiscriminately, leading to unclean surroundings. This contributes to the overall insecurity of the area. Criminals take advantage of these situations, as they purchase items from street vendors and use the opportunity to gather information that aids their criminal activities. Therefore, the removal of street hawkers is seen as an essential step in tackling these issues.
Another area of concern is development control, which Wike identifies as a significant challenge. He questions the presence of illegal structures and shanties scattered throughout Abuja. He vows to address this issue by demolishing any such illegal structures, regardless of the status or position of those responsible for them. This stern approach is indicative of Wike's commitment to restoring order and safety to the city.