Wike halts conversion of Abuja green areas to car lots

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has issued a stern directive to immediately stop the unauthorized use of green spaces, parks, and gardens in Abuja as car dealership lots. This move comes amid growing concerns over recurring flooding in the capital and aims to restore designated recreational areas.

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Minister, who decried the use of areas designated for parks and recreation like the Millennium Park and others as car lots, directed that all unauthorised use of such areas will be closely monitored to ensure compliance.

Wike expressed strong disapproval of converting spaces like the Millennium Park into commercial car lots. The FCT Administration stated that all unauthorized uses of these areas will be closely monitored for compliance. This directive is part of broader efforts to manage and mitigate the flooding experienced in various parts of Abuja.

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This is part of the efforts of the FCT Administration to manage flooding being experienced in some parts of the Federal Capital City.

To enforce this new policy, a dedicated task force has been established. Furthermore, the minister has ordered an investigation into civil servants allegedly responsible for granting illegal approvals for the conversion of these green areas. Officials, particularly directors from departments overseeing Parks and Recreation, Environmental Protection, Traffic Management, and Urban Affairs, have been summoned for questioning.

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Consequently, a task force has been set up to enforce this directive.

This action follows recent demolitions of structures built on natural waterways and flood channels in Abuja. Following a heavy downpour that caused significant flooding, disrupting traffic and businesses, Wike inspected affected areas and ordered the immediate demolition of all structures obstructing natural waterways. The flooding had severely impacted areas like Wuse 2, Durumi, Gaduwa, and Gudu districts.

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Also, the minister has directed the investigation of some civil servants responsible for granting illegal approvals authorising the use of green areas as car dealership lots.