Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has sanctioned the transfer of traders from Apo Mechanic Village to Wassa in Abuja. This decision, announced by Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Municipal Management Council (AMCC), marks a significant step forward. Obuah informed reporters in Abuja on Tuesday that the AMCC has finalized arrangements to initiate the relocation of mechanics and traders from road corridors and buffer zones to Wassa starting next month.
The long-standing challenges at Apo Mechanic Village, including overcrowding affecting more than 1,000 traders and environmental issues prompting eviction notices, necessitated this move. Obuah emphasized that relocating to Wassa offers a lasting resolution to over fifteen years of conflict surrounding the village. He affirmed that the new site in the Wassa community promises a stable, permanent solution.
“The issue of Apo Mechanic and traders has persisted for over 15 years,” Obuah remarked. “In my short three months in office, we’ve resolved the issue. Today, they are content, and so are we.”
Obuah detailed the process, indicating, “We are set to relocate all traders occupying road corridors, buffer zones, and rights of way to Wassa imminently. The minister has given approval, and preparations are underway to establish a task force for the move.”
Enumerating the traders will be meticulous, requiring each to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) to prevent duplicate registrations. Obuah clarified that allocations will be issued to individuals rather than unions, underscoring the necessity of union collaboration to expedite the relocation process.
