The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has vowed to take strict action against individuals extorting traders under the guise of facilitating land allocation for the relocation of Apo Mechanic Village to Wasa District.
Wike revealed that fraudulent activities, including overcharging and enrolling ineligible traders, have plagued the ongoing relocation process. Speaking through the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Chief Felix Obuah, the minister condemned the actions of unscrupulous union leaders who had reportedly charged traders between ₦600,000 and ₦1,000,000 per trader, far beyond the approved ₦300,000 non-refundable fee.
“Over 11,000 people have registered and paid the approved ₦300,000 fee. However, some individuals have taken advantage of the process, demanding exorbitant sums from unsuspecting traders. This will not be tolerated. Anyone found guilty of such acts will be handed over to security agencies,” Wike warned.
Combating Fraudulent Practices
The Minister highlighted several challenges encountered during the relocation exercise, particularly the submission of inflated lists by various unions. Initially, 45,000 names were submitted, but the physical enumeration process revealed numerous fraudulent claims. Wike emphasized that the relocation is intended for traders operating along the road corridors and buffer zones of Apo Mechanic Village, not for opportunists attempting to exploit the process.
“The exercise is strictly for the affected traders. We will not allow anyone to take advantage of this opportunity for personal gain,” Wike stated, emphasizing the integrity of the process.
Commitment to Fairness and Transparency
Wike assured traders that the relocation process would remain fair and transparent, with the names of allottees to be published for public scrutiny. He dismissed rumors that allocations had been secretly awarded to government officials and their associates.
“Every trader who meets the criteria will be duly allocated a shop. No allocations have been made to any government official or private interest. We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and accountable,” he stressed.
Concluding the Relocation by Year-End
The FCT Minister also expressed confidence that the relocation, which has faced delays for over 25 years, will be concluded by the end of the month. The administration is determined to resolve the issue within its tenure, providing traders with a more conducive environment for their businesses.
Wike emphasized that the relocation is part of the broader effort to address the road expansion project and create a modern, organized market for the traders. The design and site plans for the new location were also discussed during the meeting with traders.
“The government is working in the interest of the people, and we are confident that this initiative will bring lasting relief to those impacted,” Wike concluded, reiterating the commitment of the FCT Administration to a fair and effective relocation process.
With transparency, accountability, and the swift action against extortionists, the FCT Administration hopes to resolve the long-standing challenges faced by traders in the Apo Mechanic Village, ensuring they are provided with a better environment for their businesses.
