In Abuja, residents of the Ruga settlement on Airport Road are standing up against the destruction of their homes, which were recently demolished under orders from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Led by a task force named “Operation Sweep,” the demolitions aim to clear areas in the nation’s capital, which Wike sees as hubs of insecurity and disorder.

The community’s frustration spilled into the streets on Friday, with notable voices like lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju and social media influencer Vincent Martins Otse (known as VeryDarkMark) speaking out. They condemned the demolitions, calling them unjust and damaging to the lives of many poor residents. Adeyanju shared that houses were not only demolished but some were also burned, with properties worth millions lost.

Adeyanju and other protesters are urging President Bola Tinubu to act on behalf of those affected. Many Ruga residents have already endured significant hardship, having fled insecurity in northern states such as Borno and Yobe. Now, they face a fresh crisis with the loss of their homes in Abuja. “These people were forced to leave their homes in the north because of violence. Now they’re being displaced again. They’re simply trying to survive,” Adeyanju said.

The activist expressed that ongoing demolitions put community stability at risk, warning that peace is unlikely if the poor cannot live securely. He urged President Tinubu to rein in Wike, saying the cleared land could be handed over to wealthier individuals at the expense of the displaced. “There is no reason to tear down these homes and give the land to those who already have plenty,” Adeyanju argued.

Vincent Otse also highlighted the impact on the city, noting that the demolished areas are far from main roads, posing no immediate concern to the public. He criticized the lack of compensation for those evicted, calling it a harsh move amid the nation’s economic struggles. “This shows a disregard for the poor. They’re part of society too, and they deserve support,” Otse emphasized.

Abuja’s residents are hopeful that their calls will be heard, urging the government to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further displacements. The protest reflects the growing need for balance between development and safeguarding the livelihoods of the poor in Abuja.