The Directorate of Road Transport Services under the Federal Capital Territory Administration has initiated the removal of unlawful structures, including shops and eateries, at various taxi ranks throughout Abuja.
Director Abdulateef Bello, following a meeting with transport stakeholders on Monday, announced plans to reclaim taxi ranks across the territory to establish a unified mass transportation system in the FCT.
Subsequently, the department commenced the demolition of illegal structures at the Area 3 and Banex Junction Taxi Ranks in Abuja on Friday.
At the Area 3 Taxi Rank, the DTRS team, assisted by security agencies, demolished a range of establishments, such as a car wash, mechanic workshops, a cinema house, and eateries operating within the ranks.
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At the Banex Junction Taxi Rank, the space was reclaimed from miscreants who had taken over, using it for illicit activities like selling hard drugs, adulterated fuel, and diesel.
Mrs. Deborah Osho, Head of Operations at DRTS, leading the team, clarified that the initiative aimed to create more space for taxis within the ranks.
The objective is to discourage illegal taxi parks across the city by ensuring there is adequate space within the taxi ranks.
This measure also addresses the issue of “one chance” operators who exploit illegal parks for criminal activities.
After convening a meeting with transportation stakeholders on Monday, the DRTS took steps to clear taxi ranks for legitimate use.
Additionally, a temporary taxi rank around Eagle Square was designated for taxi operators, reducing the prevalence of illegal parks around the Federal Secretariat.
Mrs. Osho emphasized the commitment to clean all taxi ranks in 2024, enabling motorists to board taxis inside the ranks rather than outside.
This approach is expected to contribute significantly to mitigating the “one chance” menace in the city.
Dr. Peter Olumuji, FCTA Secretary at the Command and Control Centre in the Department of Security, highlighted that secure taxi ranks are essential in preventing one-chance crimes.
As illegal structures are removed, more space becomes available for taxi owners, allowing commuters to safely board taxis to their destinations. The joint effort to clear illegal structures will persist.
Deputy Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, Mr. Richard Siso, expressed support for the government’s action, considering it a positive development for transport operators.
He acknowledged the government’s responsiveness to their requests for assistance in clearing parks.
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