Residents of Ruga, a neighborhood along Airport Road in Abuja, took to the streets today to protest the demolition of their homes by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The residents are angry about the destruction of their homes, which they say was done unfairly and with no compensation.
The demolitions were part of a larger plan by Wike, who ordered a task force called “Operation Sweep” to clear out areas in the capital, including Ruga, in an effort to remove illegal structures and reduce what he sees as nuisances and criminal activity. However, many residents believe the demolitions were done with bad intentions and without care for the people who live there.
The protest was led by well-known lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju, along with Vincent Martins Otse, a popular social media figure known as VeryDarkMark. They both argued that the demolitions were unfair and hurtful.
Adeyanju said, “There is no justification for this demolition,” and called on President Bola Tinubu to take action. He explained that many of the people affected were displaced from other states, like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, because of violence and insecurity. “These people are struggling to survive, and now they’ve been forced out of their homes again,” he added.
He also pointed out that many of the affected residents are artisans, people who rely on their small businesses to make a living. “These demolitions are excessive. Mr. President needs to act to prevent further harm to the people,” Adeyanju said.
In his speech, Adeyanju also warned that peace cannot be achieved if the poor are constantly pushed aside. He urged President Tinubu to call Minister Wike to stop the demolitions, saying that the land is being reallocated to the rich. He added, “The community is far from the main road, so there is no public reason to destroy their homes.”
Vincent Otse, speaking at the protest, said, “This is strange. The repercussions of this will have a heavy toll on Abuja. These people are being evicted without compensation and without a clear reason. It’s sad that the rich think the poor don’t matter.”
The protest is calling attention to the suffering of people who are already dealing with difficult lives and lack of opportunities. The residents of Ruga are hoping that their voices will be heard and that the government will find a way to stop the demolitions and protect the people who are struggling.
