By Bayero Ade
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly defended his ongoing demolition of properties allegedly built on government lands in Abuja, despite widespread criticism from residents and property owners.
The demolitions have led to controversy, leaving many people displaced. Recently, a construction company, Paullosa Nigeria Limited, raised concerns after receiving a demolition notice from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) targeting its estate in the Lifecamp area.
However, Wike stood by his actions, insisting that the structures were unlawfully built on government land and posed security risks. He boldly declared, “Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now, so we will not be fasting again to go to heaven.”
Responding to allegations of blackmail and intimidation, Wike stated he would not be deterred by threats. “What is wrong is wrong, and no amount of blackmail will stop us,” he said. “We will not allow anyone to illegally occupy government land, regardless of who they are. Whether you are a civil rights activist or a TV personality, it doesn’t matter.”
Wike also warned individuals with unpaid ground rents in the FCT to settle their dues or risk having their property titles revoked, emphasizing that security was a top priority for his administration.
In a separate event, during the distribution of 50 operational vehicles to security agencies, Wike urged the agencies to use the vehicles to ensure the safety of residents, particularly during the festive season. The vehicles were allocated to various security forces, including the FCT Command of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, the Nigerian Army Guards Brigade, the Abuja Naval Unit, and the Nigerian Air Force Camp.
Wike’s comments continue to fuel debate on urban development, land rights, and the role of local government in enforcing property regulations in the FCT.
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