The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has given a stern 24-hour demolition notice to proprietors of 500 illegal markets and makeshift structures along the Karmo – Dei-Dei Road corridor in Abuja. This move aims to address the congestion and disturbances caused by unauthorized structures, particularly on market days.
Mr. Garba Jibril, the Sector Monitor and Assistant Director in the Department of Development Control, emphasized the necessity of the demolition to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate ongoing road development projects.
He stated, “The ongoing presence of traders along the road corridor is obstructing the contractors from beginning their work.”
Jibril highlighted the FCTA’s efforts to sensitize stakeholders, including traders and traditional leaders, regarding the need to relocate to the officially designated Karmo Market. Despite numerous engagements, traders have been reluctant to comply with the directive, posing challenges to traffic flow and urban development initiatives.
“We have had several meetings with the relevant stakeholders, including traditional leaders in the area, to get them to move but they remained adamant.”
Jibril remarked, “We equally held a meeting with the traders and the new market operators, who promised to give the traders some incentives to be able to accommodate them in both the informal and the main shops.”
He also noted discussions with market operators to provide incentives for traders to transition smoothly to the designated market area.
Jibril said, “We are hoping that after the demolition, there will be a successful relocation from the road corridor to the main market.”
The impending demolition stresses the administration’s commitment to maintaining a conducive urban environment and ensuring the safety and convenience of residents.
Jibril emphasized, “This will not only maintain a serene environment but also ensure the free flow of traffic in the area.”
In a similar vein, the Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS) under the FCTA had initiated demolition operations earlier in January, targeting unauthorized structures at various taxi ranks across Abuja. Mrs. Deborah Osho, Head of Operations at DRTS, led the effort to create space for legitimate taxis to operate within the ranks, aiming to eliminate illegal taxi parks citywide.