Wike Directs Clearance of Abuja Ruga Settlement Citing Security Threat

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate evacuation and demolition of an illegal settlement known as “Ruga” in Kukwaba District of Abuja, citing security concerns over its alleged use as a hideout by suspected criminals.

Wike issued the directive on Friday after the FCT Security Committee meeting and a subsequent inspection of the settlement, situated close to Karmajiji, a few kilometres from the Abuja City Gate.

The minister said security intelligence indicated that suspected criminals sometimes retreat to the settlement after carrying out attacks in other parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

He expressed concern over the difficulty of identifying and monitoring occupants of the unregulated community, describing the situation as a serious security risk within the nation’s capital.

Wike characterised the settlement as a “time bomb” and directed the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, to work with the Director of Development Control to commence the clearance of the area.

The minister warned that the FCT Administration would not permit illegal settlements to become safe havens for criminal elements, stressing that those who facilitate criminal activities from such locations would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

According to the minister, the action forms part of broader efforts by the FCT Administration to dismantle suspected criminal enclaves, strengthen security and protect lives and property across Abuja.

Earlier in the inspection tour, Wike visited the ongoing construction of the access road to the FCT Fire Service Station along Arterial Road SI. The road connects Ring Road II in Kaura District with Oladipo Diya Way in Gaduwa District.

The administration said the security and infrastructure measures are part of its continuing efforts to improve safety, order and the quality of public infrastructure within the Federal Capital Territory.