The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered authorities to stop car racing in residential neighborhoods across Abuja following growing concerns that the activity poses a serious threat to public safety.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday, Wike said the directive came after concerns were brought to his attention during an interview. Although no formal complaint had previously been submitted, he assured residents that the FCT Traffic Management authorities would act immediately.
According to the minister, some motorists have been using residential roads for high-speed racing, taking advantage of the capital city’s improved road network. However, he stressed that the safety of residents must take precedence over recreational driving.
“They are trying to show how beautiful the roads are, but they forget that such activities put innocent lives at risk,” Wike said.
The minister explained that while car racing is not entirely prohibited, enthusiasts must restrict the activity to designated locations rather than residential communities where families, pedestrians, and other motorists are exposed to danger.
He emphasized that individual freedoms have limits when public safety is at stake, noting that protecting human life remains the government’s top priority.
Wike also clarified that the restriction specifically targets residential areas and does not extend to highways.
The directive is expected to strengthen road safety enforcement within Nigeria’s capital as authorities seek to prevent accidents and improve the quality of life in residential communities.
