Residents of Ruga, a community located along Abuja’s Airport Road, held a large protest on Friday against the recent demolition of their homes, directed by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. The destruction has left many families displaced and sparked widespread anger and calls for intervention.
The operation, led by a special task force known as “Operation Sweep,” was sanctioned by Wike as part of efforts to address issues of illegal settlements and perceived security threats within the capital. However, the residents argue that the demolition unfairly targeted their community and was carried out without regard for their welfare.
Deji Adeyanju, a prominent lawyer and activist, stood alongside Vincent Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMark, in leading the demonstration. Adeyanju described the demolitions as “excessive” and “unjustified,” stressing that the task force not only leveled homes but also burned properties valued in the millions of naira.
He emphasized that most of Ruga’s residents are displaced individuals from northern states like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe who had relocated to Abuja in search of safety and stability after fleeing conflict in their home regions.
Adeyanju appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to consider the hardship faced by these displaced families and to intervene. “There is no justification for this demolition,” he said, adding that the affected residents are predominantly artisans and low-income earners trying to make a living under difficult conditions.
VeryDarkMark also voiced his concern, describing the demolition as a severe blow to the residents who have now been left homeless amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges. “This is strange,” he said. “The repercussions of this will have a heavy toll on Abuja. They are evicting these people without compensating them.”
