Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has pledged to clamp down on illegal street racing within Abuja’s residential neighborhoods, warning that these activities jeopardize public safety and put innocent residents at risk.
Addressing reporters during a routine project inspection on Monday, Wike acknowledged that while the newly built and smooth road infrastructure across the capital city has drawn praise, drivers and thrill-seekers must not convert residential streets into racing tracks.
Highlighting concerns over reckless driving and organized illegal street racing in residential areas, the minister emphasized that personal freedoms end where public safety is threatened.
He said, “First of all, they are trying to show how beautiful the roads are, but then they forget there are aspects of it that also pose danger to innocent citizens.
“I appeal to them to understand that their rights have limitations, and life is more important.”
Although the government has not yet received a formal written petition detailing specific locations, Wike assured residents that immediate action will be taken through internal enforcement channels.
The minister promised to collaborate with the FCT Traffic Management Department to ensure compliance. He emphasized that high-speed car racing in residential neighborhoods will be strictly banned.
According to him, motorsport enthusiasts must restrict high-speed activities to designated racetracks or approved non-residential areas.
“Rest assured that we will do everything possible to see that we don’t allow car racing within residential areas.
“But if it is on the highway, well, we will not stop,” Wike added.
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Backstory…
The crackdown follows a growing number of complaints about illegal street racing and reckless driving on major roads in the Federal Capital Territory, particularly at night and during weekends.
In recent years, popular routes such as Airport Road, the Kubwa Expressway and parts of the Central Area in Abuja have reportedly become hotspots for illegal street racing, dangerous stunts and excessive speeding.
Residents have repeatedly raised concerns over the risks posed to motorists and pedestrians, while security agencies have warned that such activities endanger lives and public infrastructure.
