The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reiterated his commitment to the ongoing demolition of illegal structures in Abuja despite public outcry. Speaking during the distribution of operational vehicles to security agencies at the FCTA Secretariat on Thursday, Wike defended the demolitions, emphasizing the government’s zero tolerance for land grabbing and illegal developments.
“This administration will not succumb to blackmail,” Wike declared. “There are countless instances of unauthorized structures on government land, and we will not relent in enforcing the law. Let heaven fall if it must—we are determined to restore order in the FCT.”
The minister explained that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is targeting structures built without proper approval or documentation, adding that no individual or group, regardless of status, would be exempt. “Whether you are a civil rights activist or a media personality, illegal actions will not be condoned,” he stated.
The demolitions have sparked widespread criticism, with many residents and lawmakers raising concerns about the human and economic impact. Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT, brought the issue to the Senate floor, arguing that the demolitions were inflicting significant hardship on affected communities. She urged the Senate to intervene and halt the demolitions, particularly those involving marked estates.
Supporting the motion, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) called for a temporary suspension of all demolitions until the Senate concludes its investigation into the matter.
However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified that demolitions linked to court orders could not be halted. “The minister is obligated to enforce court rulings to avoid being in contempt,” Akpabio noted.
In response, the Senate constituted a nine-member ad hoc committee to investigate the propriety of the demolitions. Wike has been summoned to provide clarification on the matter.
The minister has also faced allegations of revoking land titles for certain estates and reallocating them to private entities, raising questions about the transparency of the process. Despite this, Wike remains resolute, asserting that his actions are aimed at upholding the integrity of Abuja’s urban planning and land use regulations.
As the controversy unfolds, the FCT administration’s firm stance on demolitions continues to divide public opinion, with many watching closely for the outcome of the Senate’s inquiry.
