Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of an illegal settlement known as Ruga, located near Karmajiji in the Kukwaba District of Abuja, after security reports identified it as a suspected hideout for criminals.
The directive was issued on Friday after Wike led a joint team of security operatives to the settlement following a meeting of the FCT Security Committee.
According to the Minister, the action is part of the FCT Administration’s ongoing campaign to strengthen security and eliminate criminal enclaves across the nation’s capital.
Wike said intelligence gathered by security agencies indicated that suspected criminals often retreat to the settlement after carrying out attacks in different parts of the territory.
He expressed concern that the identities of many residents could not be verified, making it difficult for security agencies to effectively track and monitor activities within the community.
“Look at the area. You don’t even know who the occupants are. How do you identify them? How do you know where to locate them? And this is inside the city,” he said.
Describing the settlement as a major security threat, Wike added, “This is a time bomb. There’s no way we can allow this. The FCT Administration will not allow criminal hideouts to thrive in Abuja.”
The Minister directed the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, to work with the Department of Development Control to ensure the immediate demolition of the settlement.
He also warned that anyone using such locations to aid criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
Wike explained that the operation forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal networks, improve public safety and safeguard residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
He reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to sustaining security operations across Abuja, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority.