Residents of residential estates in Karsana District, Abuja, are facing a wave of panic following the approval granted by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for the establishment and operation of motor parks within the area.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reportedly given the green light for the construction and operation of these motor parks, based on the recommendation of the FCT Transportation Secretariat. Managed by a private firm initially for five years, the contract is subject to renewal thereafter.
Expressing their concerns, residents of Mab Global Estate and Queens Estate, two prominent communities in Karsana District, fear for their safety as they believe the presence of motor parks could attract criminals, potentially compromising their security.
One resident, Mr. James Adebayo, highlighted a recent kidnapping incident involving the wife of a permanent secretary in November 2023, where a ransom of N100 million was paid.
He emphasized the fears among residents that the motor parks could exacerbate security risks in the area and urged the minister to reconsider the approval.
However, some residents question the authenticity of the motor parks contract, pointing out that the approval letter is dated May 25, 2023, just before the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. They are skeptical about the timing and legitimacy of the approval process.
Although the approval was granted during the previous administration, Wike reportedly endorsed and facilitated the project upon assuming office as FCT minister.
In response to the growing concerns, the FCT Transportation Secretariat has called for a meeting with representatives of the affected estates scheduled for Tuesday, February 13, 2024, to address the grievances and seek a resolution.
Residents remain determined to voice their opposition to the approval of the motor parks directly to the FCT minister in hopes of reversing the decision.
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