FCTA demolishes illegal ‘cashew garden’ shanties in Apo

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has demolished illegal structures and shanties, popularly known as “Cashew Garden,” in Apo Cadastral Zone E27, Abuja, as part of its ongoing City Sanitation Operation.

Director of Development Control, Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, who led the exercise on Tuesday, said the demolition was aimed at flushing out miscreants and eliminating security threats in the area.

“You recall that we carried out similar operations in Zone 3, Wuse, and UTC, as directed by the FCT Security Committee.

Today, we are in Apo, dislodging shanties and miscreants posing security risks to residents,” he stated.

Chairman of the garden, Mr. Steven Obiozo, however, defended the over 200 occupants, insisting they were not criminals and were allowed to occupy the land by its owner.

He said most residents operated small shops, selling provisions, food, and drinks.

Galadima maintained that their occupation was illegal, warning that land allocations harbouring miscreants would be revoked.

He explained that the area was designated for residential use, but some allottees failed to develop their plots within the stipulated period.

“We will take over this area as directed by the FCT Security Committee.

“All plot owners who allowed illegal structures here will lose their allocations,” he warned, adding that the site falls along the planned S20 road corridor linking FHA Apo to Guzape 2.

Director of Security Services, Mr. Adamu Gwary, represented by the Secretary, Command and Control, Dr. Peter Olumuji, said the exercise was part of efforts to make the FCT uncomfortable for criminals, some of whom engage in drug trafficking.

“Wherever you go, we will pursue and smoke you out,” he declared.