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BREAKING: Protest Breaks Out In Abuja As Residents Oppose Demolition By Wike

Published

2 months ago

Nov 8, 2024.

Residents of Ruga, a community along Airport Road in Abuja, protested on Friday against the recent demolition of their homes, which was ordered by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.

The minister had launched a task force, known as “Operation Sweep,” to clear Ruga and other areas within the city as part of a drive to eliminate perceived nuisances and criminal activities.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that prominent activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju, along with Vincent Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMark, led the protest, condemning the demolition as a harsh and malicious act against vulnerable residents.

According to the protesters, the task force went beyond standard demolition, reportedly setting fire to numerous homes, worsening the devastation and despair faced by those affected.

Adeyanju appealed to President Bola Tinubu to step in and address the situation, emphasizing the hardship endured by many of the displaced residents, who had previously fled their homes in states like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe due to insecurity. “There is no justification for this demolition,” he said.

“We appeal to the president to recognize the plight of these residents, who have been struggling to survive. Most of them are artisans, trying to make a living, and these demolitions are excessive. The government should prioritize their safety and stability.”

Adeyanju continued, warning of the broader social implications of displacing low-income residents without due consideration.

“Peace can only be sustained if the poor are allowed to live peacefully,” he noted. “When the poor cannot sleep, everyone suffers. President Tinubu should intervene and stop Minister Wike from reallocating these lands to wealthy individuals.

The affected area is distant from main roads, so there is no overriding public interest at play here.”

Supporting Adeyanju, Otse expressed dismay over the evictions and called attention to the ongoing economic hardship in Nigeria.

“This is unconscionable,” he said.

“The demolition leaves these people homeless and without any form of compensation, amid the difficult economic conditions in the country. It’s sad that the elite often disregard the poor, treating them as though they are not part of society.”