The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through the Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS) has initiated the demolition of shops, eateries, and unauthorized structures in taxi ranks throughout Abuja.
The demolition began at the Area 3 and Banex Junction Taxi Ranks in Abuja on Friday, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
At the Area 3 Taxi Rank, the DRTS team, with support from security agencies, removed a car wash, mechanic workshop, cinema house, and eateries that were operating within the ranks.
Meanwhile, at Banex Junction Taxi Rank, the space had been overtaken by miscreants using it to sell illegal substances such as adulterated fuel and diesel, rendering the taxis unable to utilize the ranks.
Mrs. Deborah Osho, the Head of Operations, DRTS, leading the initiative, indicated that the purpose of the demolition was to create space for more taxis to operate within the ranks, ultimately dissuading illegal taxi parks across the city due to the shortage of space in the taxi ranks.
She also stressed that this move would address the issue of “one chance” operators who exploit illegal parks for their illicit activities, emphasizing that most taxi ranks had become havens for criminals selling illegal substances.
Furthermore, Osho explained that the decision to clear the taxi ranks of unauthorized structures came after a meeting with transport stakeholders to promote a cleaner and more peaceful environment in the FCT.
She mentioned, “We have equally handed over a space around Eagle Square for taxi operators to use temporarily, to stop the menace of illegal parks around the Federal Secretariat.”
Moreover, “We are prepared to clean all taxi ranks in 2024, to ensure that motorists board taxis inside the taxi ranks and not outside,” she added. “This, in the long run, will address the menace of ‘one chance’ in the city.”
Dr. Peter Olumuji, the Secretary, Command and Control Centre, Department of Security Service, FCTA, highlighted that the presence of secure taxi ranks is crucial in preventing “one chance” incidents and ensuring the safety of commuters.
He also emphasized the need for additional personnel and vehicular assets for sustained clean operations in taxi ranks and expressed confidence that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, would provide the necessary support to maintain the cleanliness and serenity of the capital city.
