The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has imposed a two-week ban on the activities of Pantekas (sellers of used items) within the territory.
This decision was among the resolutions reached at the first Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Security Council meeting of 2025, held on Monday and presided over by the minister.
The ban, which takes effect from Tuesday, January 14, 2025, is part of efforts to address security concerns and curb illegal activities within the FCT.
In addition to the ban on Panteka markets, Wike also prohibited scavenging within Abuja’s city centre and surrounding areas, restricting such activities to designated dump sites only. This measure aims to reduce environmental degradation and prevent the misuse of scavenging as a cover for criminal activities.
The minister reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring accountability for economic crimes. He announced that individuals arrested for vandalizing public infrastructure in the FCT would face prosecution for economic sabotage and attempted murder.
“Activities of all Pantekas (sellers of used items) have been banned for two weeks, effective from tomorrow. Scavenging is banned within the Abuja city centre and its environs, with scavengers now restricted to dump sites alone.
“All those arrested for vandalizing public infrastructure will be charged to court for economic sabotage and even attempted murder,” Wike stated, according to a release by his media aide, Lere Olayinka.
The bans reflect the minister’s determination to restore order, improve security, and safeguard public assets within Abuja. These policies are expected to address concerns about crime and environmental issues associated with the unrestricted operations of scavengers and Panteka traders.
The FCTA is expected to monitor compliance and take further actions to ensure the effectiveness of these directives.
