Kehinde Fajobi
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has announced plans to sue the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over the alleged demolition of ‘shanties’ in Abuja.
SERAP made the disclosure on Monday via its official X platform, urging Wike to cease the demolitions and adhere to the rule of law.
Reports indicate that the demolitions have displaced over 15,000 residents in the Ruga area, with some properties set on fire after being demolished.
Many affected residents, some of whom have lived in the communities for nearly 40 years, protested with placards reading “Stop Demolition,” “Wike Must Go,” and “Stop Demolishing Poor People’s Houses to Give to Your Friends.”
Protesters voiced concerns over the lack of affordable housing and the apparent favoritism towards the wealthy.
They called on President Tinubu to protect their rights and prevent further displacements.
In response, SERAP stated: “We’re suing Nyesom Wike, minister of the FCT, over the apparently ongoing unlawful demolitions of the so-called shanties and the attacks on beggars in Abuja. The minister must immediately halt the demolitions and attacks and respect the rule of law.”