Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has declared his commitment to demolishing any unauthorized structures on Abuja’s designated green areas without offering compensation.
In recent months, Wike has adopted a strict approach toward dismantling illegal buildings and shanties across Abuja, citing security concerns. He warned that some beggars could be disguised as criminals or informants, posing a threat to public safety.
On November 5, residents of Ruga, a settlement along Abuja’s airport road, protested the demolition of their homes, claiming ancestral ownership of the area. Protesters, led by Martins Vincent Otse and Deji Adeyanju, called for Wike’s removal, but the minister stood firm. Wike stated his administration would not be deterred by protests or accusations and would continue to remove structures deemed security risks.
During a media briefing, Wike expressed disappointment over unlawful encroachments and reaffirmed his commitment to take decisive action. “On Saturday, I was in Maitama with the Director of Land and Development Control. I don’t just sit in my office; I go out to see what’s happening,” he explained, describing how he observed extensive depletion of greenery in Maitama.
Wike warned that any unauthorized construction on green areas would be demolished without compensation. He stressed that he alone has the authority to approve building projects, cautioning against unauthorized transactions.
He also pointed out the prevalence of fake land documents in the FCT, many of which are forged certifications from the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). Wike reminded civil servants not to exceed their authority, noting that only the FCT Minister has the power to sign Certificates of Occupancy.
“Decisions made without proper authority are illegal. We must halt the rush to build without understanding the legal framework,” Wike stated. Referring to a Supreme Court ruling, he affirmed that the FCT has jurisdiction over all land within its territory and advised encroachers to correct their actions.
“We cannot allow individuals to occupy land that isn’t theirs. Those who try will face the consequences,” he concluded.
