In a bid to resolve growing tensions, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike met on Monday with traditional leaders from Kpaduma and Guzape communities regarding ongoing road construction projects that require resident relocation.
The closed-door meeting, initiated by Wike, sought to address concerns about the impending evacuation of villagers from areas earmarked for critical infrastructure development. The minister stressed the project’s significance for Abuja’s urban planning, stating it would significantly improve traffic flow and city connectivity.
“Government’s development efforts must sometimes involve difficult decisions,” Wike acknowledged, while recognizing the communities’ ancestral ties to the land. He assured transparent compensation processes, pledging that “every affected individual would be duly compensated” with prompt issuance of Rights of Occupancy for new resettlement areas – mirroring the approach used for Gishiri community in Katampe district.
Community representatives, led by the Sapeyi of Garki Alhaji Usman Nga Kupi, welcomed the minister’s direct engagement. “We appreciate the FCT Minister for his transparency and willingness to engage us directly,” the traditional rulers stated, signaling cautious optimism about the proposed resolutions.
The meeting represents Wike’s hands-on approach to managing delicate development-related displacements in the capital, balancing infrastructure needs with community welfare concerns. Further consultations are expected as the FCTA finalizes relocation timelines and compensation packages.
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