The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has intervened in the escalating dispute among Apo Traders’ Associations over land allocation, following a clash that erupted during a meeting convened by the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC).
The clash, which occurred during a fact-finding mission chaired by AMMC Coordinator Felix Obuah, saw multiple unions and individuals presenting conflicting claims and counterclaims regarding the allocation of land for the relocation of Apo Traders Associations (ATAS) to a permanent site.
The intervention came after some factions of the Associations staged a protest, blocking the FCT Minister’s gate at Area 11, Garki I District, Abuja, on Thursday. Wike, addressing the protesters, urged them to follow due process in addressing their grievances.
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The Apo Traders’ Associations have been demanding the allocation of land for a permanent site and the provision of basic infrastructure before vacating road corridors for an ongoing dual carriageway project.
Expressing his displeasure over the disunity among the traders, Obuah warned that the government would not engage with illegal organizations or allocate land to groups without a united front. He reiterated that any illegal structure obstructing the ongoing road project’s right of way would be removed.
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In conclusion, Obuah advised the traders to unite and organize themselves properly, cautioning that the documents they presented might not be sufficient to earn them government attention.
The intervention by the FCT Minister underscores the need for concerted efforts and cooperation among all stakeholders to find a lasting solution to the Apo traders’ relocation issue, to avoid further clashes and disruptions.
