- Wike recounted instances where former officials allocated land unlawfully, undermining the authority of the FCT minister
- The minister also cautioned against civil servants acting beyond their powers, stressing that only the FCT Minister can sign Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has vowed to demolish any unauthorized structure on Abuja’s green areas without compensation.
Recently, the FCT minister has been firm on demolishing illegal structures and shanties in Abuja, the nation’s capital, due to security concerns.
The FCT minister noted that beggars could be disguised as criminals and “informants,” posing a security threat.
On November 5, residents of Ruga, a settlement along the airport road in Abuja, protested against the minister over the demolition of structures.
Led by Martins Vincent Otse and Deji Adeyanju, the protesters demanded the minister’s removal, claiming ancestral ownership of the demolished settlements.
However, Wike remained resolute, stating that his administration would not be swayed by blackmail or protests.
He pledged to continue demolishing shanties that pose a security threat to residents.
During a media chat in Abuja, the FCT minister expressed disappointment over the illegal encroachments and emphasized his commitment to taking decisive action.
Wike stated, “On Saturday, I was in Maitama with the Director of Land and Development Control. I do not simply sit in my office; I go out to see what’s happening.”
He discovered that the green areas in Maitama had been nearly depleted, with no trees or greenery left.
Wike warned that anyone building on a green area without approval would face demolition without compensation.
He emphasized that he alone has the power to approve construction projects, warning against unauthorized dealings.
Wike claimed that numerous fake land documents in the FCT are actually forged certifications from Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
He warned civil servants against overstepping their authority, stating that only the FCT Minister can sign Certificates of Occupancy.
Wike said, “Everything is illegal when decisions are made without proper authority. We must stop the rush to build without understanding the legal framework.”
He cited the Supreme Court ruling, stressing that the FCT controls all land within its territory, urging encroachers to rectify their actions promptly.
Wike added, “We cannot allow people to occupy land that doesn’t belong to them. Those who attempt to do so will face the consequences.”
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