By our Reporter
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, has launched a sweeping operation to clear Abuja and its satellite towns of street beggars, scavengers, illegal traders, and other perceived public nuisances.
The exercise, tagged “Operation Sweep Abuja”, is part of a broader security and environmental effort in accordance with the Abuja Environmental Protection Act and other relevant laws.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the operation is being carried out by a Joint Task Force composed of security personnel and key FCTA departments.
The FCTA said those apprehended will be profiled and returned to their respective home states.
“In line with the Abuja Environmental Protection Act and other relevant laws, the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate removal of street beggars, illegal traders, scavengers, and other miscreants from the capital city,” the statement read.
It added that the nation’s capital must reflect order and pride, not serve as a haven for individuals seen as threats to public safety. The FCTA emphasized that most of those targeted are allegedly linked to criminal activities.
“Anyone found begging, scavenging, loitering, or engaging in acts that threaten public order will be arrested, documented, and handed over to their state of origin,” the statement noted.
The minister reiterated that the safety of residents and the security of property remain top priorities for the administration.
