Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to double compensation for residents of Guzape and Kpaduma communities affected by ongoing road construction in the area.
Speaking during a meeting with traditional rulers and community representatives in Abuja on Monday, Wike said the move aims to ensure fairness and proper resettlement of affected residents. He directed the FCT Director of Resettlement to increase the compensation rate by 100 per cent.
“If they are supposed to get N50, give them N100,” Wike said. “We are not here to displace anyone unjustly. This is about building a better Abuja for all.”
He also assured that legal documents, including Rights of Occupancy, would be issued for new resettlement areas without delay. However, he stressed that compensation would apply only to structures located along the road corridor, not the entire community.
The Minister expressed concern over the continued occupation of the marked area, which is crucial to improving traffic flow and urban development in the FCT. While acknowledging the emotional ties residents have to their ancestral land, Wike appealed for understanding, stating that some development efforts come with difficult decisions.
Responding on behalf of the communities, the Sa’peyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga-Kupi, commended the Minister for his transparency and willingness to engage directly. He pledged the communities’ cooperation to support the resettlement and development process.
“We appreciate the respect shown to our people and will support this effort for the sake of peace and progress,” Nga-Kupi said.
