….Warns Committee Against Nepotism in Shop Allocation
TOYIN ADEBAYO, ABUJA
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has initiated concrete steps to relocate Abuja’s largest mechanic village, known as Apo Mechanic Village, to a permanent site.
This move comes 25 years after the idea was first proposed by the FCT Administration.
Contrary to speculations, the minister clarified that there has been no deadline given for the current occupiers to move out or risk demolition.
He also warned officials against nepotism in the allocation of shops.
Thousands of auto technicians, spare parts dealers, and other service providers will be relocated from their current road corridor location to a more expansive permanent site in the Wasa district, a 15-minute drive from their current location.
During the inauguration of a 19-member technical committee on the relocation of auto technicians from Apo to Wasa, the minister, represented by the Coordinator of Abuja Metropolitan Management Agency (AMMC), Chief Felix Obuah, assured that the current site will not be demolished until a better alternative is provided and an orderly migration is ensured.
Obuah emphasized the need for a thorough enumeration of those to be relocated, ensuring that only eligible individuals currently operating on the road corridor will be allocated new spaces.
He also assured that the entire process, which includes technical, engineering, allocation, and resettlement tasks, would be completed within three months.
The committee comprises representatives from various departments including Development Control, Abuja Environment Protection Board (AEPB), Urban Affairs, Resettlement and Compensation, General Counsel and Legal Services, Lands, Urban and Regional Planning, Mapping and Surveying, Finance and Administration, and Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS/VIO).
Obuah stressed that the allocation of new shops will be strictly based on eligibility and not for personal connections. A database of all technicians and dealers will be developed to ensure transparency and fairness.
Mandate Secretary Mr. Bitrus Garki praised the minister for appointing capable leaders and emphasized transparency and accountability in the relocation process.
He assured stakeholders of a fair process and urged the committee to address any complexities that may arise.
The Chairman of the Committee, Malam Abubakar Makama, expressed gratitude for the swift action taken to resolve the issue that has lingered for over 25 years.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration and transparency in creating a secure and organized environment in Abuja’s markets and motor parks.