The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has firmly stood his ground regarding the demolition of structures in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), despite mounting criticism and scrutiny. His stance comes in the wake of a series of demolitions that have sparked outrage among some residents, with claims that the government has been acting hastily without proper investigation or due diligence. This controversial decision has drawn significant public attention, leading to widespread debate about the fairness and transparency of the demolitions.
The Minister has faced intense criticism from various quarters, including concerns raised by the Senate, which has since launched its own investigation into the demolitions. Lawmakers have expressed doubts over the manner in which these demolitions were carried out, questioning whether proper procedures and legal frameworks were followed before the structures were razed. Some critics argue that the demolitions are too sweeping and have affected innocent property owners, while others have pointed out that there may have been mistakes in identifying illegal structures. Despite these calls for reassessment and caution, Wike has maintained an unyielding position, refusing to be swayed by public backlash or political pressure.
During a ceremony on Thursday, where operational vehicles were distributed to security agencies at the FCTA Secretariat in Abuja, Wike reiterated his firm stance on the matter. Speaking directly to the public, he made it clear that no amount of blackmail or political maneuvering would deter him from his course of action. He stated that the structures being demolished were illegally built on government lands and obtained through the unlawful practices of land grabbers. Wike further emphasized that these unauthorized constructions not only violated land use laws but also posed significant security risks to the FCT’s residents. He expressed his belief that allowing these illegal structures to stand would endanger the safety and integrity of the area, and that the demolitions were necessary for the long-term well-being of Abuja’s development.
In his address, the Minister also made it clear that there would be no reversal of the decision. Wike vowed to continue targeting illegally constructed buildings and shanties in Abuja, promising to go after more of these structures as part of the government’s efforts to restore order and ensure that land regulations are adhered to. “Let me use this opportunity to tell Nigerians and residents of Abuja we are not afraid of blackmailing. In fact, you cannot be in this kind of position, and you cannot be blackmailed, particularly regarding this Abuja. There are so many land grabbers. Some of us have come to put our feet down. Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now so that we would not be fasting again to go to heaven,” Wike declared, signaling his readiness to confront opposition and do what he believes is necessary to protect the FCT and its future growth.
Wike’s resolute stance reflects his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal land acquisition and unauthorized development in Abuja, regardless of the opposition he faces. While the ongoing investigations into the demolitions may shed light on the process and determine whether the actions were carried out within the bounds of the law, the Minister remains firm in his belief that addressing these irregularities is essential for the future of the capital city. As the situation unfolds, Wike’s approach continues to draw both support and criticism from various sections of the public, but he remains steadfast in his resolve to carry out his vision for a more orderly and secure Abuja.
