The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has directed security agencies to swiftly shut down all illegal mining operations and unauthorised Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps within the territory, citing rising security concerns.
Ajao Saka Adewale, Commissioner of Police in the FCT, stated this while briefing journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, stating that the illegal mining sites and unauthorised IDP camps pose significant security threats to the nation’s capital .
Adewale expressed concern over the growing number of illegal mining activities across the city, describing them as a serious security risk. He noted that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued clear instructions for the immediate shutdown of all such sites.
He also raised alarm over the emergence of unauthorized IDP camps within the territory, saying some individuals were exploiting the situation to set up camps that are not officially recognised.
According to him, the authorities have identified these locations, and individuals found there will be screened. “Those with legitimate reasons to remain in the FCT will be allowed to stay, while others will be relocated to their original places,” he stated.
In addition, the Commissioner announced a sweeping enforcement action targeting traffic offenders, particularly motorists using covered number plates or driving against traffic flow.
He said such violations are not only illegal but also heighten the risk of criminal activity in the city.
“These practices—like driving against one-way traffic—pose serious danger to lives and public safety. It’s effectively a suicidal act,” Adewale warned.
He added that all offenders would be tracked, documented, and dealt with accordingly as part of efforts to protect the collective security of the FCT.
He confirmed that enforcement operations had already been set in motion.
Addressing the recent conflict between farmers and herders in Gwagwalada Area Council, the FCT Police Commissioner confirmed that the matter had been peacefully resolved.
He noted that a peace agreement had been reached among key stakeholders and would be implemented at all levels to foster lasting harmony within the affected community.
“At the moment, security personnel remain on ground in the area to build trust and maintain stability, ensuring there’s no resurgence of violence or any retaliatory actions,” he added.
The Commissioner further revealed that 273 destitute individuals apprehended during a recent cleanup operation are still being processed and profiled at the Bwari Rehabilitation Centre.
