Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has defended the ongoing demolition of properties in Abuja, stating that the actions target illegally constructed structures on government lands. Speaking at an event in Abuja on Thursday, Wike dismissed criticisms and vowed not to be deterred by blackmail.
“The structures being demolished are illegal. We are not afraid of blackmail,” Wike said during the distribution of operational vehicles to security agencies at the FCTA Secretariat. He added, “Let heaven fall; it is better it happens now than later.”
In recent months, the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has intensified the removal of illegal buildings and shanties in Abuja, citing security concerns and improper approvals as key reasons. The move has sparked public backlash and protests, but Wike remains resolute, warning that government lands cannot be seized without proper documentation.
“We will stop anyone trying to take government land. It doesn’t matter if you’re a civil rights activist or a television personality. What is wrong is wrong,” the former Rivers State governor asserted.
Wike’s comments came as the Senate ordered an investigation into the demolitions, following a motion sponsored by Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT. The Senate has tasked a committee, led by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, to probe the issue and invite Wike for explanations.
The Senate committee will assess the demolitions’ legality and implications while addressing public concerns over the policy’s impact on residents in the nation’s capital.
