Wike Bans Used Items Markets, Scavenging In FCT

• The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has banned used items markets in the FCT for two weeks.

•  The ban, which takes effect from January 14, 2025, also restricts scavenging to dump sites only.

•  Wike announced the ban during the FCT Security Council meeting.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has banned used items markets, popularly known as ‘Panteka’, in the FCT for two weeks. The ban, which takes effect from Tuesday, January 14, 2025, is aimed at addressing the rising cases of vandalism and economic sabotage in the territory.

Wike announced the ban during the FCT Security Council meeting, where he also restricted scavenging to dump sites only. According to a statement by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, “Activities of all Pantekas (sellers of used items) have been banned for two weeks effective from tomorrow.”

The minister emphasized that scavenging is now restricted to dump sites alone, adding that those arrested for vandalizing public infrastructure will be charged to court for economic sabotage and attempted murder. “Scavenging is banned within the Abuja city centre and its environs. Scavengers are now restricted to dump sites alone,” Wike said.

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