…says enforcement drive targets public order, sanitation, security in the FCT
ABUJA — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has directed security agencies to commence immediate enforcement operations against beggars, scavengers, street traders, cattle herders and others found to be violating public order regulations across Abuja.
The directive, announced by the FCT Administration, marks a renewed push towards sanitizing the city and restoring order in public spaces that officials say have been overtaken by illegal activities.
According to the FCT Administration, the exercise is part of broader efforts to improve security, enforce environmental and sanitation laws, and ensure that Abuja functions in line with its status as Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.
Wike said the initiative is aimed at keeping Abuja clean, safe, and befitting of its position as the seat of government. He noted that the indiscriminate use of walkways, road medians, and other public areas for trading, grazing and begging has created congestion and security risks.
“Illegal street activities and the indiscriminate occupation of public spaces will no longer be tolerated,” the Minister said. “Abuja must reflect order, dignity and the standard expected of a capital city.”
Under the new directive, security agencies have been mandated to apprehend and remove persons engaged in street begging, scavenging, hawking and open grazing within the city centre and major districts. Officials said the enforcement will also cover makeshift stalls and structures erected on road shoulders and pedestrian walkways without approval.
The FCT Administration explained that scavenging and open trading have contributed to environmental degradation, indiscriminate waste dumping and traffic obstruction in several parts of the territory. It added that the presence of herds of cattle in urban areas has also raised concerns about road safety and sanitation.
The crackdown is expected to begin with sensitisation, followed by arrests and prosecution of repeat offenders. Task teams comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, VIO and the FCT Department of Development Control are to coordinate the operation across the six area councils.
City planners have long flagged the challenge of managing informal economic activities in Abuja. Successive administrations have attempted similar clean-up exercises, citing the need to protect the master plan of the capital and to reduce incidents of petty crime often associated with loitering and unregulated street trading.
The FCT Administration said it will provide designated markets and other approved locations for legitimate traders who are displaced by the enforcement, while also working with social welfare agencies to address the issue of destitution and street begging.
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the move. While some welcomed the effort to restore order and improve sanitation, others called for alternative livelihood support for those who depend on street trading and scavenging for survival.
The Minister urged residents and visitors to comply with FCT laws, warning that anyone found obstructing public spaces or violating sanitation regulations would face the full weight of the law.
