Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared the on-street parking scheme, known as the park-and-pay system, illegal in Abuja.
Wike made this announcement during a media briefing on Wednesday, marking his first year in office.
The Minister revealed that after a thorough investigation, he discovered irregularities in the agreement between the FCT and the managing contractors of the park-and-pay system.
According to Wike, the contract allowed the contractors to take 80% of the collected fees, leaving only 20% for the FCT.
“I was unaware of this scheme until a senior advocate friend informed me about people seizing cars under this arrangement,” Wike explained.
“When I investigated further, I found that 80% of the revenue goes to these so-called consultants, while only 20% is meant for the government. This is unacceptable.”
The park-and-pay system, initially introduced in 2012, was designed to reduce congestion on Abuja’s roads by charging fees for designated parking spots.
Although suspended in 2014, the system was reinstated in August 2023 under a new agreement between the FCT administration and contractors.
Wike’s declaration casts doubt on the future of the controversial parking scheme, as his remarks suggest a need for reform or complete discontinuation.
