The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a stern warning to residents with criminal inclinations, urging them to vacate the city of Abuja. Mr. Peter Olumuji, the Secretary of FCTA’s Command and Control Joint City Enforcement Team, conveyed the message during an ongoing cleanup operation across various parts of Abuja.

Olumuji stated that the FCTA, through its cleanup initiative, is actively targeting all criminal hideouts to eradicate unlawful elements from the capital territory. The team successfully uncovered a criminal hideout in the Asokoro District, particularly around the AYA roundabout and its environs, based on credible intelligence from security agencies.

Illicit drugs were seized during the raid, and the criminals who had been terrorizing residents in the area were expelled.

“We have gotten reports that people are being attacked around the area mostly at night, and so we raided their locations and dislodged them.

“Although we have not made any arrest, it is nonetheless a good development for those traversing the area, especially in the night,” Olumuji said.

The ongoing exercise reflects the FCT Administration’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a secure environment for its residents. In light of this, the FCTA official issued a stern warning, declaring that the city will no longer provide a conducive environment for criminals. The enforcement team will persistently dismantle criminal hideouts throughout the capital city.

“We are, therefore, advising all residents with criminal tendencies to change or relocate to wherever they came from,” he said.

In addition to combating criminal activities, the joint team also targeted notorious areas known for causing environmental nuisances. These areas included sites with excessive waste, illegal markets, unauthorized auto mechanic workshops, and motor parks. Notable locations cleared of environmental nuisances include the Court of Appeal Junction, Federal Secretariat Complex, Eagle Square, and the Nicon Junction axis of Shehu Shagari Way.

The team comprised officials from the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), and security personnel. Their collaborative efforts yielded favorable outcomes in addressing environmental issues within Abuja city.

Kaka Bello, the Deputy Director of Monitoring and Enforcement (AEPB), expressed confidence in the synergy among the agencies involved, assuring continued teamwork to maintain cleanliness and safety in the city. Mrs. Deborah Osho, the Deputy Director of Operations (DRTS), hailed the operation as a “huge success” and reported the impoundment of approximately 11 vehicles, towing them from illegal parking lots and mechanic workshops. Additionally, seven tricycles were seized due to alleged route violations.

In a previous operation on July 12, the FCTA impounded 16 vehicles, apprehended four cows, and arrested seven beggars. The collaboration between different agencies aims to create a cleaner and safer environment in Abuja.