The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has cleared the UTC Complex and its surrounding areas in Abuja, removing makeshift structures and suspected criminal hideouts as part of efforts to improve security and sanitation.
Mukhtar Galadima, Director of Development Control at the FCTA, told journalists at the site on Monday that the exercise is part of a broader initiative aimed at improving sanitation and public safety across the city.
Galadima explained that the operation began with the removal of a refuse dump near the UTC Complex before extending to areas known to harbour criminal activity.
He said the clearance followed directives from the FCT Security Council and that measures are in place to ensure continued enforcement and long-term impact.
He added that the cleared land falls within Abuja’s designated transit corridor under the city’s master plan. The area will be fenced to prevent future encroachment or illegal development.
“This land lies within Phase One of the Abuja Master Plan and the Garki District. Although not yet developed, it is protected under the Land Use Act to prevent land grabbing,” he said.
Addressing recent social media backlash over the alleged demolition of a garden in Zone 3, Galadima clarified that no such demolition occurred at Panorama Garden.
He stated that due process was followed, with initial notices served in October 2023, followed by additional notices throughout 2024 and in February 2025.
Galadima said he also met personally with mechanics and informal settlers in the area to inform them of the planned clearance.
He emphasised that the park itself remains intact. “Panorama Garden still exists,” he said. “The playground, gym, and lounge are all there. Only temporary structures and shanties put up by scavengers were removed.”
Speaking on the security aspect of the operation, Peter Olumuji—representing the Director of Security Services—described the clearance as part of a deliberate effort to dismantle criminal hideouts.
He reported a noticeable decline in crime rates in the cleared areas over the past week, citing data from the FCT Police Command.
“Since this operation began a week ago, crime statistics show a significant reduction in criminal activity in the affected locations,” Olumuji said.
He confirmed that suspects arrested during the operation are being profiled for prosecution and that the ongoing Operation Sweep Abuja is working to identify and displace criminal elements in other parts of the city.
Several machetes believed to have been used in attacks were recovered during the operation.
Meanwhile, the Area 7 Pedestrian Association has appealed to the FCTA and relevant agencies for support in clearing a key access road in the area.
Clifford Azarama, Vice Chairman of the association, thanked the administration for its efforts but emphasised the need for better cooperation.
He specifically urged the Area 3 operation manager to collaborate more effectively with the association in maintaining order.
“There have been times when officials come here but don’t engage with us,” Azarama said. “Even when we point out areas that need attention, they don’t respond.”
To address the issue, Azarama said the association will activate its internal task force to manage traffic and enforce parking rules.
“Tomorrow, we’ll issue uniforms to our task force members,” he said. “They’ll patrol the road and enforce the ‘No Parking’ policy.”
He added that the association plans to engage nearby business owners to form a joint effort in keeping the area orderly and clean.
