Development Control Department to Commence Clearance Operations
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a quit notice to the ‘Ya Kasuwa’ market along the N16 road corridor in Gwarinpa, with traders mandated to vacate by Wednesday. The Development Control Department plans to initiate clearance operations starting Thursday.
Mukhtar Galadima, Director of the Development Control Department, conveyed the directive during a meeting with stakeholders, including representatives of the traders union. He emphasized that the traders’ refusal to vacate compromised the timeframe for a comprehensive development contract awarded for the arterial road.
“The timeframe for the contract has been compromised by the traders’ refusal to vacate. Failure to execute the contract as scheduled could result in escalating material costs and potential demands for contract variation, contrary to the Administration’s policy,” highlighted Galadima.
Despite ongoing discussions since September 2023, traders’ persistent requests for additional time prompted this decisive action. Galadima urged cooperation, stating, “We are coming to clear the place. We are giving you up till Wednesday to clear your things. By Thursday, we are going to start.”
Responding to inquiries about a new market site, Galadima clarified that market allocation falls under the jurisdiction of local councils, urging them to identify suitable alternatives for the affected traders.
Mohammed, Secretary of the traders union, acknowledged the impending construction and conveyed the government’s message. “We have been there over 20 years ago, and now it has come to our notice that the road is to be constructed. We are asking for more time as we are already concluding plans to relocate,” he stated.
In a related development, the Development Control Department took action against a structure in the Karmo district, obstructing a floodplain. Garba Jubril, an official of the department, highlighted challenges faced in enforcing compliance due to the developer’s resistance, even involving the enlistment of policemen.
Jubril emphasized the importance of adhering to building regulations in the planned city of Abuja, stating, “The advice is that they should obey the law. Abuja is a planned city. Whoever wants to build knows what to do. Once you secure duly allocated land, you should apply for building approval.”
This move by the Department of Development Control underscores the commitment to urban planning and infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory.
