The City Sanitation team in Abuja has removed illegal buildings and shacks known as “Cashew Garden” in Apo, Zone E27.
Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, who leads the Development Control Department, said during the operation that they are clearing these areas to get rid of criminals and troublemakers.
He reminded reporters that similar clean-up actions had already taken place in Wuse Zone 3 and UTC, following instructions from the FCT Security Committee.
He explained that this time, they were working in Apo to remove illegal structures and people causing security problems for residents.The head of the Cashew Garden area, Mr. Steven Obiozo, said about 200 people lived there and they were not criminals.
He claimed the landowner allowed them to stay.Obiozo said most of the people built small shelters and shops to sell food, drinks, and other basic items.
But Galadima said the people living there had no permission from the government, so their presence was illegal.
He also warned that the FCT government might cancel the land ownership if the plot owners continue to let criminals stay there.
Galadima added that the land was meant for housing, and the people who were given plots didn’t develop them on time.
He said, as ordered by the FCT Security Committee, the government will now take back control of the land.
He explained that the area already had planned roads and boundaries marked, including a major road called S20 that links FHA Apo to Guzape 2.
He said both the roads and plots were clearly laid out, and any landowner who let illegal buildings come up will lose their plot and it will go back to the FCT government.
Galadima said this kind of operation will continue across all parts of Abuja.
Also, Mr. Adamu Gwary from the FCT Security Services said they are making the city unsafe for people involved in crime.Gwary, represented by Dr. Peter Olumuji, said some of the people being removed were also involved in selling illegal drugs.
He warned criminals that Abuja is no longer a place where they can hide. He said the authorities will keep chasing them out wherever they go.
