FCTA clears UTC ‘dark spot’, vows sustained security, sanitation

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has carried out a large-scale clearance exercise at the popular UTC Complex and its environs, targeting what officials described as a notorious “dark spot” and hideout for criminals.

Director of Development Control, TPL Mukhtar Galadima, told journalists at the site that the operation was part of a wider initiative to improve city sanitation and strengthen security.

According to him, the exercise began with the removal of a major dumpsite near the complex before moving into areas allegedly occupied by hoodlums.

He said the FCT Security Council ordered the clearance and that similar actions will be sustained to ensure lasting results.

The reclaimed land, located within the transit way corridor of the Abuja Master Plan, will be fenced off to prevent future encroachment.

“In the Abuja Master Plan and the Land Use Act for Phase One and Garki District, this is part of the transit way corridor.

“It has not yet been developed, but it is being maintained and protected against land grabbing,” Galadima explained.

Addressing social media criticism over an alleged demolition at a Zone 3 garden, Galadima insisted that the garden in question, Panorama, was not demolished.

He said notices were issued as far back as October 2023, with follow-ups in 2024 and February 2025, and that consultations were held with mechanics and other occupants before the clearance.

“The park allocated to Panorama is still intact. The playground, gym, and lounge are all there.

“Only makeshift structures and scavengers’ shanties were removed,” he clarified.

Representing the Director of Security, Dr. Peter Olumuji said the operation was a deliberate effort to dismantle criminal hideouts.

He reported a sharp drop in crime rates in areas recently cleared, citing figures from the FCT Police Command.

“Since this operation began a week ago, crime in the affected areas has reduced drastically. Arrested suspects are being profiled for prosecution, and ‘Operation Sweep Abuja’ is tracking displaced criminals to other locations,” he said.

Olumuji added that security operatives have recovered several machetes allegedly used in attacks on residents.