FCT Minister orders demolition of unauthorised taxi parks
In a decisive move to streamline and regulate taxi operations within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT, through the Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS), has commenced the demolition of illegal structures at various taxi ranks in Abuja.
Following a meeting with transport stakeholders earlier in the week, the Director of DRTS, Abdulateef Bello, had announced plans to reclaim taxi ranks to facilitate a unified mass transportation system in the FCT. The operation kicked off on Friday with the demolition of unauthorized structures at Area 3 and Banex Junction Taxi Ranks in Abuja.
At Area 3 Taxi Rank, the DRTS team, supported by security agencies, carried out the demolition of a car wash, mechanic workshops, a cinema house, and eateries, all operating illegally within the taxi ranks. Similarly, at Banex Junction Taxi Rank, the operation aimed to reclaim the space, which had been overtaken by miscreants engaging in illegal activities, including the sale of illicit substances and adulterated fuel.
Mrs. Deborah Osho, the Head of Operations at DRTS, who led the demolition team, emphasized that the measure aims to create more space for authorized taxis to operate within the ranks. The initiative seeks to discourage illegal taxi parks throughout the city by ensuring that there is sufficient space within designated taxi ranks. Osho added that this effort is a proactive step to address the issue of “one chance” operators who take advantage of illegal parks for criminal activities.
In line with the plan outlined during the stakeholder meeting, the DRTS has designated a temporary taxi rank around Eagle Square for taxi operators. This move aims to curb the proliferation of illegal parks around the Federal Secretariat and promote a safer and more organized taxi system.
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The ongoing operation is part of a broader commitment to clean all taxi ranks in 2024, fostering an environment where commuters can board taxis securely within designated ranks.
Dr. Peter Olumuji, FCTA Secretary, Command and Control Centre in the Department of Security, emphasized that the initiative addresses security concerns related to “one-chance” crimes, highlighting the need for secure taxi ranks to ensure passenger safety. The Deputy Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, Mr. Richard Siso, expressed strong support for the government’s action, describing it as a positive step for transport operators.
