Gishiri Road Project: Wike Warns Against Sabotaging Government Development Efforts

By Sofiat Adenekan

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Tuesday, personally oversaw the removal of structures impeding the construction of the Arterial Road N16 in Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja.

Speaking at the demolition site, the Minister emphasized that affected residents had been duly notified and given ample time to vacate.

He stressed that their cooperation was essential for the contractor, Messrs CGC, to complete the road project and deliver it by the end of May.

Wike expressed regret that, despite being granted a one-week extension at the request of the village chief, some residents refused the government’s offer of compensation and relocation assistance.

He noted that this resistance had hindered progress on the vital infrastructure project.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the public interest, the Minister made it clear that the FCT Administration would not tolerate actions that obstruct development initiatives.

He underscored that the road project is not for private acquisition but serves a broader public purpose.

“I am personally supervising this exercise to send a strong message that it will no longer be business as usual,” Wike stated.

“We served eviction notices and communicated the necessity of cooperation to ensure that the contractor, CGC, can complete this project and hand it over by the end of May.”

He further explained, “The traditional ruler appealed for a one-week extension, which was granted. Compensation funds have been provided, and we also offered alternative relocation options.

Despite these assurances, work remained stalled. No government will stand by and allow a critical public project to be sabotaged.”

Addressing concerns about the impact of the demolition, Wike reiterated that the government had extended sufficient time for residents to relocate.

He maintained that halting a major infrastructure project due to the reluctance of a few individuals was not an option.

“More than two to three months have been given for resettlement. We cannot allow a few individuals to hold back development. The project must continue,” he affirmed.

The Minister urged affected residents to collaborate with the FCT Department of Resettlement and Compensation to finalize their relocation arrangements, ensuring a smooth transition while enabling the timely completion of the road project.