FCTA demolishes ‘pantaker’ market in Abuja over security concerns

The federal capital territory administration (FCTA) has demolished a popular scrap market also known as “pantaker” in the Apo-Dutse area of Abuja over rising insecurity in the city.

On November 12, squatters and illegal traders at the scrap market were asked to vacate the premises ahead of the demolition exercise.

The FCTA joint task force gave them a one-week ultimatum to squatters at the market to relocate with their properties.

Speaking at the exercise, Muktar Galadima, the FCT director of department of development control, said the demolition at the market was the second time this year.

Galadima said the exercise followed several complaints from residents of the area about security threats posed by the activities of the panteka operators.

He said the clearance was part of the FCT minister’s determination to ensure that Abuja is free of criminality.

“It’s part of the direction of the new FCT Administration, everything we do, we have to bring in elements of tax so that the people will contribute to city development and management,” he said.

“I am also an advocate of integration. That is integrating the informal sector because they contribute huge percentage to the national economy, so let’s look at it and study it to know how we can integrate it.”

“For me, a special team should be set up to look at this sector of the economy. If we can do that, I think we can generate so much employment, so much revenue, and maintain the sanctity of the city.”

The director said his team would also go to all other areas that need cleanup and demolition.

Also speaking after the exercise, Peter Olumuji, secretary of command and control sector, FCTA, said vandalised items such as manhole covers and cables, as well as stolen vehicle parts, including vehicles number plates, were found with the “pantaker” operators during a previous visit to the area.

He said his team was there for a holistic security cleansing, not just the removal of the shanties and trees that provided them cover to operate.