The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced a ban on the operations of used items markets, popularly known as Panteka, and restricted scavenging activities to dump sites within the FCT.
The ban on Panteka markets will take effect for two weeks starting Tuesday, 14th January 2025. Wike made this declaration during the FCT Security Council meeting, emphasizing the need to address security and environmental concerns associated with these activities.
The announcement, disclosed by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, through a post on X, also highlighted a prohibition on scavenging within the Abuja city centre and its environs.
The statement read, “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. Scavengers are 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,” he added.
