Against the one-way presentation by some traders at the Wuse Zone 3 Neighborhood shopping complex, alleging that the FCT Development Control Department is about to demolish the complex, so people and the FCT Minister should come to their aid, the Transparency Watch Initiative has debunked their claims.
The coordinator of TWI, Mr. Umar Abba, emphasized that investigations carried out by the group after the clarion call by the traders showed that the entire complex was long due for demolition, but long-held litigation made the FCT authorities give them some time.
The approval for the redesign and rebuilding of the complex was given by one of the past FCT ministers, with building approval from the Development Control Department of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Authority.
So, why this propaganda, the group asks the traders. Part of the demolished Wuse Zone 3 complex has become a haven for criminals, as scavengers, popularly known as “baban Bola,” have made the place their headquarters.
Abuja must develop; hence the redesign and rebuilding to meet modern demands.
Look at the new upstairs shopping complex in Area 1 shopping center; it was rebuilt, and modern accessories were added to it like underground parking slots, public convenience, firefighting gadgets, and multiple exit and entry points compared to the old architectural design of the Wuse Zone 3 Neighborhood complex.
Above all, most of the shops are not owned by the traders but by different individuals, so why the complaint? We, therefore, are in support of the redesign and building for a clean and safe FCT.
It is also a known fact that the traders are divided, which made it difficult for them to sign an MOU with the FCT authorities.
The Wuse Zone 3 Neighborhood traders have factional unions working at loggerheads. Before the FCTA authorities resorted to this decision, an olive branch was extended to the traders, but to no avail as they failed to cooperate and attend meetings with the authorities.
Their advocacy and crocodile tears are rather too late now.
