Abuja residents can now breathe a little easier after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) launched a strong operation to clear out criminals and their hideouts along the Inner Northern Expressway.
The operation, named Operation Sweep Abuja, happened on Wednesday and was led by a joint team of security operatives, following orders from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The move came after rising complaints about increasing “one chance” robberies and attacks around Wuse District and the Central Area.
Over 20 vehicles suspected to be used by criminals were seized, and dangerous weapons like machetes were recovered during the raid.
Some of the vehicles were either abandoned or not roadworthy, while others had been linked to criminal activities. Owners will have to pay steep fines to reclaim them.
The Director of Development Control, Muktar Galadima, said the raid was necessary to reclaim the city from hoodlums.
“These shanties are not only illegal but also make Abuja dirty and unsafe,” he said. “We are clearing them out and putting the land to better use.”
Peter Olumuji, who represented the Director of Security Services, FCTA, explained that many criminals who attack people near the National Mosque and Zone 1 bridge were coming from the area that was cleared. “This operation will bring relief to those who pass through here daily,” he added.
Deborah Osho, Head of Operations at the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (VIO), confirmed that some of the impounded vehicles were directly linked to one chance crimes.
Residents have praised the move, saying it’s long overdue.
“We’ve lived in fear for too long,” said Mr. Emeka, a taxi driver in Wuse. “This cleanup is a big step.”
The FCTA has promised that this is just the beginning.
More mop-up operations will follow to ensure that criminals do not return to the cleared areas.
