Residents of Karu community have formally appealed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to relocate the Karu Abattoir from the centre of the town due to environmental and public health concerns.
The appeal was made on Sunday, December 14, 2025, during an end-of-year event organized by the Karu Gbagyi Development Association, themed “Karu and Nation Building: Promoting Excellence in Unity.”
Environmental and Social Concerns
According to Sumner Sabo, an official of the association, the abattoir’s current location poses serious challenges for the community. “The abattoir is in the middle of the community. Blood from slaughtered animals flows into streams affecting several neighbourhoods,” he said.
Sabo also raised public safety and social issues, noting that the site has reportedly become a hub for drug activity, which is influencing local youths and contributing to criminal behavior.
Proposed Alternatives
The residents suggested relocating the abattoir to a more isolated area, away from residential zones. They proposed that the current site could be repurposed for a secondary school or a youth sports centre, offering safer and more productive use of the land.
Infrastructure and Health Concerns
Sabo further called on the FCT Administration (FCTA) to revisit and expedite the completion of the Karu General Hospital, a project that has faced delays since 2006 due to Public-Private Partnership (PPP) challenges. Residents believe completing the hospital would significantly improve access to healthcare services.
Community Unity and Development
Senator Philip Aduda commended the association for organizing the event and stressed the importance of unity among indigenes to drive development in Karu. “This call ensures the community continues to achieve meaningful progress while fostering cooperation and love among residents,” he said.
