The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has issued a decisive ultimatum for the demolition of illegal settlements within the Chika Aleita Abuja Technological Village.
During an inspection tour, Wike directed the Development Control Department to promptly remove the settlers, citing previous compensations paid to earlier settlers in the area.
He underscored the urgency of addressing the encroachment issue, attributing it to the failure of past administrations to take action against individuals building illegally in the village despite compensation.
Wike affirmed his administration’s commitment to demonstrating political will in resolving the situation and safeguarding the substantial investment in the science and technology village.
Expressing surprise at the ongoing activities in the village, Wike instructed the ministry to provide details for constructing an office within the village instead of utilizing a rented building.
He believes that a visible presence in the village will attract more investors to the science and technology incubation hub.
In response to the situation, the Minister of Science and Technology, Mr. Uche Godfrey Nnaji, highlighted the risks and losses caused by illegal settlers encroaching on the village. He emphasized the detrimental impact on the country’s investment drive and expressed support for the timely intervention.
The Abuja Science and Technological Village, established by the Federal Government to incubate science and technology within a Free Trade Zone, has faced setbacks in its development.
The efforts to launch the village were impeded by the untimely demise of President Umar Musa Yar’adua’s administration. Wike’s decisive actions aim to rectify the encroachment issue and propel the village towards fulfilling its potential as a hub for scientific and technological advancements.
