The Nigerian Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has carried out the demolition of the renowned UTC Shopping Complex in Abuja.
The FCTA stated that the complex, which had been in existence for over 30 years, needed to be dismantled to make way for necessary reconstruction.
The administration emphasized that the structure was long overdue for reorganization in order to align with the shopping complex model required to support the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and address global business needs and challenges.
Hassan Ogbole, the Deputy Director of Monitoring and Inspection in the Department of Development Control, explained that the existing structures were inadequate and required upgrading to meet international business standards.
He mentioned that arrangements had been made to accommodate the traders and other occupants of the complex during the reconstruction process. Despite giving sufficient notices to vacate the premises and allow for construction to commence, many of the occupants refused to comply.
Ogbole described the condition of the complex as dilapidated and unsuitable for occupation and business activities, hence the need for its replacement with a new development.
Peter Olumiji, the Secretary of Command and Control in the FCTA Department of Security, highlighted that dismantling the complex was also necessary to address the illegal activities that were taking place there.
The refurbishment plans were designed to put an end to the criminal activities and forgery of official documents that had tarnished the complex’s reputation.
Samuel Onuchukwu, one of the complex’s dealers, revealed that many traders had not yet removed their goods and belongings from the shops and offices. They were taken by surprise when they woke up early on Saturday to find that the entire UTC area had been cordoned off for demolition, leaving their goods trapped inside.