Abuja Workers Forced to Trek Through Bush Paths Amid APC Convention Disruptions
Workers across various parts of Abuja faced significant hardships on Friday as they were compelled to trek through bush paths and makeshift routes due to extensive road closures and stringent security checks. These disruptions occurred in the nation's capital ahead of the national convention of the All Progressives Congress, leading to widespread inconvenience and frustration among commuters and residents.
Government Directive and Its Unintended Consequences
The situation stemmed from a directive issued by the Federal Government, which ordered the closure of access roads around the Federal Secretariat Complex and Eagle Square for the duration of the convention. The government also instructed workers within the affected axis to work from home to mitigate disruptions. However, this measure failed to account for a broader category of workers whose offices are located outside the Federal Secretariat but rely on the same restricted routes to access their workplaces.
By the early hours of Friday, security operatives had established checkpoints and barricades across major roads leading to key districts, including Maitama and the Three Arms Zone. These restrictions left numerous commuters stranded, forcing many to abandon their vehicles and continue their journeys on foot through narrow bush paths and informal walkways.
Voices of Frustration from Affected Workers
The development triggered considerable frustration among workers and residents, with many describing the experience as avoidable and calling for more comprehensive consideration in future arrangements. A private sector employee, Bright Obasi, shared his ordeal, stating that he was turned back by security personnel despite setting out early for work, leaving him with no option but to trek.
"This is unfair, I left home early to resume work, only to be stopped by these people. I'm already late for work and I can only hope my oga will understand," he lamented. Similarly, a civil servant who identified herself simply as Toyin expressed displeasure after trekking for over 30 minutes to reach her office.
"You can see the way I'm sweating. I've been trekking for over 30 minutes to access my office. It's really frustrating," she said. She added that although she was aware of the government circular, it did not address the realities faced by many workers outside the Federal Secretariat corridor.
"They should know that not every civil servant works at the Federal Secretariat and some of us need to pass those blocked roads to link with our offices. They need to do better next time. Maybe declaring a public holiday for everybody," she suggested.
Broader Impact and Calls for Improved Planning
A businessman, Vincent Okoli, also recounted his ordeal, noting that multiple roadblocks forced him to abandon his initial travel plans and resort to trekking through bush paths to keep an appointment. "The only option I'm left with is this footpath inside this bush. It's not funny at all. I parked my car at home and joined a commercial vehicle thinking that would be better, but the security guys are not making things easy at all. They just don't want to listen. Must the masses be subjected to this kind of harsh treatment all the time?" he lamented.
Efforts to obtain comments from security personnel stationed at various checkpoints proved unsuccessful, as officers declined to speak on the restrictions. Meanwhile, a member of the APC, who spoke on condition of anonymity while heading to the convention venue, defended the arrangement. He argued that declaring a public holiday across the Federal Capital Territory was not feasible for a party event.
"It's just a day event. It's not possible for our party to block roads again on Monday. It's one in a blue moon experience, kindly bear with us," he stated.
Government Circular and Its Extended Impact
The Federal Government had, in a circular issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, announced the closure of roads around the Federal Secretariat Complex from March 27 to March 28, 2026. This action was cited as necessary for security and logistical needs related to the convention. Although the measure was intended to ensure order and safety during the high-profile gathering, its impact extended beyond the designated areas, disrupting economic and official activities across parts of the city.
This incident highlights the need for more inclusive planning in future events to minimize disruptions for all residents and workers in Abuja.
