Abuja, Nigeria
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has said that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will ensure that residents of Guzape and Kpaduma communities affected by road construction will be compensated.
NAN reports that Wike pledged during a meeting with the traditional rulers and representatives of Kpaduma and Guzape communities in Abuja on Monday, over the road project.
He explained that the meeting was convened to address concerns surrounding the delay in relocating villagers affected by the planned road project.
The minister voiced concern over the continued occupation of the road corridor designated for construction, which is intended to improve traffic flow and enhance connectivity across the FCT.
He assured traditional leaders and community members of the government’s commitment to ensuring fairness and justice for all those impacted.
Wike pledged that every affected resident would receive appropriate compensation and that a Right of Occupancy for the new resettlement areas would be issued without delay.
He instructed the Director of Resettlement to assess the full cost of relocating the residents and described the current compensation rates as inadequate, ordering an immediate 100 percent increase.
“Increase their rate. If they are supposed to get N50, give them N100.
“We are not here to displace anyone unjustly. This is about building a better Abuja for all.
“We will ensure your people are properly compensated and given legal documents for their new homes,” he said.
However, he clarified that compensation would only be provided for structures located directly along the designated road corridor, not for the entire community.
The minister underscored the vital role the road project plays in the broader development agenda of the capital city.
While acknowledging the communities’ deep-rooted ties to their ancestral lands, he appealed for their understanding, noting that meaningful development sometimes requires making tough decisions.
In response, the traditional leaders—led by the Sa’peyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga-Kupi—praised Wike for his openness and willingness to engage with them directly. Nga-Kupi recognised the potential benefits the project would bring to the area and pledged the community’s support for the resettlement process.
“We are grateful for the minister’s assurance and the respect shown to our people.
“We will support this effort in the interest of peace and progress”, the traditional leader said.
