FCTA to demolish illegal buildings in Abuja’s popular market
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to initiate the demolition of unauthorized buildings within the Area 1 Shopping Complex starting on Monday, September 18. This decision follows concerns about the attachment shops, illegal constructions, and improper parking that have contributed to traffic congestion and an unsanitary environment in the area.
The decision was reached during a meeting involving various FCTA departments, including Development Control, Security Service, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, and the Abuja Investments Company Ltd, in collaboration with traders from the market.
Muktar Galadima, the Director of FCTA Development Control, communicated this decision during the meeting with traders and shop owners over the weekend. He emphasized that the current administration aims to engage with market managers to establish an understanding before proceeding with the demolition.
Galadima cited the overcrowded and unhygienic conditions in the market, posing threats to emergency response and public health, as reasons for the action. Additionally, concerns were raised about the security of lives and property.
He explained, "The congested and unhygienic state of the market is not conducive for the safety and well-being of traders and customers." Galadima proposed centralizing kilishi/suya vendors, removing internal parking spaces, and eliminating the use of multiple generators in the market to reduce noise pollution.
Galadima also expressed concerns about the potential for a disastrous fire outbreak in the market if immediate action isn't taken to address these issues.
He concluded, "We are committed to improving the traffic situation caused by activities in this market, aligning with the vision of the Nyesom Wike-led FCT Administration to sanitize the Federal Capital Territory."
He called upon all stakeholders in the market for their support and assured that the administration would make necessary arrangements to provide alternative shops for those affected by the cleanup.
Umar Uba, speaking on behalf of the traders, thanked the FCT Administration for involving them in the decision-making process and pledged their assistance in the market's sanitation efforts, recognizing it as being in their best interest.
