By Remi Johnson
In a renewed effort to fulfill a long-standing government promise, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Nyesom Wike, has begun moves to facilitate the relocation of Apo mechanic traders and auto dealers to a permanent site in Wassa District.
Dr. Wike, who personally visited the Apo mechanic traders and dealers, assured them that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration is determined to break the cycle of unfulfilled promises.
Wike noted that previous administrations had pledged the relocation since 2011 but failed to execute it. He, however, pointed out that no meaningful progress can be achieved if the traders continue to fight among themselves.
“It’s been promise upon promise since 2011 without results. But President Tinubu has made a commitment, and now the process has started,” Wike said.
To demonstrate the administration’s seriousness, Wike announced that a joint inspection of the Wassa site, involving committee members and representatives of the Apo mechanic community, would be conducted on June 27 to assess the infrastructure needs for a smooth transition.
“This visit will help us determine the critical infrastructure that must be put in place to make your relocation seamless,” Wike added.
In a passionate appeal delivered in Pidgin English, Wike urged the traders to maintain peace and unity among themselves.
“Wetin I want from una be say, make una stop to dey fight. When una unite, una go get wetin una want,” he said.
He warned that internal disputes could derail the process and emphasized that collective effort and cooperation were key to achieving meaningful progress.
“The government’s business is to make people happy, and we will do everything possible to ensure your happiness,” the minister assured.
Wike reiterated the zeal of Mr. President to provide a permanent, well-planned operational base for thousands of traders, mechanics, and dealers currently operating along the Outer Southern Expressway corridor in Abuja.
The minister, who will chair the relocation committee, named other members to include the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council and the Directors of Development Control, Land, Urban and Regional Planning, Survey, as well as Resettlement and Compensation.
He also issued a stern warning to all the directors involved, stating that he would not entertain any form of sabotage or excuses during the relocation process.