Wike Orders Investigation

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered an investigation into FCT officials linked to illegal approvals for car dealerships in Abuja.

The officials include Directors in the Departments of Parks and Recreation, Environmental Protection, Traffic Management and Urban Affairs.

The FCT Head of Service, Nancy Sabanti Nathan, has summoned the affected officials. The investigation will examine their role in approving the use of green areas, parks and gardens for car lots.

Wike also ordered the immediate end of car dealership activities on green areas and other spaces meant for public recreation.

The FCT Administration announced the decision in a statement issued on Wednesday. Lere Olayinka, the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, signed the statement.

Task Force to Enforce Ban

The minister has also ordered the creation of a task force to enforce the directive.

The team will monitor the affected areas and stop further unauthorised commercial activities. It will also check that businesses do not return to spaces reserved for parks, gardens and other public uses.

Wike raised concerns about the use of recreational areas for commercial purposes. Parts of Millennium Park and other green spaces have also come under attention.

The development has renewed questions about land use in Abuja. Green spaces form an important part of the city’s planning system. They also provide areas for recreation and help support better urban management.

Flooding Raises Planning Concerns

The FCT government’s latest action also links to recent flooding in Abuja.

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in parts of the capital last Saturday. Wike later inspected Maitama and other affected areas.

Following the inspections, the minister ordered the removal of illegal structures blocking drainage channels. He also warned against activities that could prevent the free movement of stormwater.

READ ALSO :Wike Targets Buildings Obstructing Waterways After Abuja Flooding

The use of green areas for commercial purposes has therefore become part of a wider discussion about Abuja’s drainage and urban planning.

Poor land-use control can put pressure on infrastructure. It can also reduce the space available for recreation and environmental management.

Abuja Master Plan Under Review

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has also announced plans to review the 1979 Abuja Master Plan.

The review will consider the city’s growing population and changing climate conditions. It will also look at whether existing infrastructure can meet the needs of the capital.

The Abuja Master Plan provides the basis for the city’s planned development. Its implementation affects housing, roads, drainage, public spaces and commercial development.

The review could therefore have wider implications for property developers and investors in the FCT.

Impact on Real Estate

The investigation also highlights the need for proper land-use approval in Abuja.

Property developers, investors and businesses must follow approved planning rules before using land for commercial purposes. Unauthorised changes can create legal and financial risks for property owners and investors.

The case also shows why strong urban planning matters to the housing and real estate sector. Abuja needs clear land-use rules to support orderly development as the city expands.

For residents, green areas and parks also provide important public spaces. Protecting these areas can support better urban planning and help maintain the city’s environmental balance.

The outcome of the investigation will determine whether any officials breached established procedures when they approved car dealership activities on land reserved for parks and recreation.

The wider issue remains the effective enforcement of Abuja’s land-use rules. Stronger enforcement could help the FCT protect public spaces, improve infrastructure planning and support more orderly property development.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of houses and other structures built on designated water channels in Abuja following renewed flooding in parts of the capital.

Wike issued the directive after inspecting areas affected by flooding, including Maitama, where he said developments obstructing designated waterways would no longer be tolerated.

The minister warned that the enforcement exercise would apply regardless of the status or influence of the property owners.

Government Moves Against Structures Blocking Waterways

According to the FCT Administration, buildings constructed on designated water channels can obstruct the natural movement of stormwater and increase flood risks in surrounding communities.

Wike said the FCT would proceed with removing structures that interfere with water channels, regardless of whether their owners are politically influential.

The directive comes after heavy rainfall caused flooding in parts of Abuja, renewing concerns over drainage infrastructure and development in flood-prone areas.

Maitama Among Areas Affected

Maitama was among the areas inspected following the flooding.

The FCT Administration has identified structures obstructing waterways as part of the factors requiring urgent attention as authorities respond to flooding across the capital.

Wike’s position is that property ownership or political influence should not shield buildings that violate planning requirements or obstruct critical drainage channels.

Flooding Raises Questions About Urban Planning

The latest enforcement action goes beyond demolition.

It highlights the consequences of allowing development to take place without adequate consideration of drainage networks, flood plains and natural water channels.

As Abuja continues to expand, increasing construction has placed greater pressure on existing infrastructure. Where drainage systems are inadequate or waterways are blocked, heavy rainfall can quickly expose weaknesses in the city’s urban-planning system.

For residents, the consequences can include damaged homes, disrupted transportation and losses to household and commercial property.

Property Development Needs Stronger Planning Controls

The development also reinforces the importance of verifying planning approvals before purchasing or developing property.

A building may have significant financial value, but that does not protect it from enforcement action if it is found to violate applicable planning or environmental requirements.

For developers, proper site assessment and compliance with approved land-use plans are therefore essential before construction begins.

For buyers, the episode is another reminder that property due diligence should go beyond checking ownership documents. Planning approval, permitted land use, drainage arrangements and the location of the property in relation to waterways also matter.

Balancing Development and Flood Protection

Abuja’s growing population means the demand for housing and other developments will continue.

But urban expansion cannot come at the expense of the infrastructure and natural systems needed to manage rainfall.

The FCT’s latest action demonstrates the need for authorities to combine enforcement with long-term investment in drainage infrastructure, flood mapping and transparent development controls.

The immediate demolition order may address individual structures, but preventing future flooding will require consistent planning enforcement before buildings are constructed.

For Abuja’s housing market, the message is clear: a development that ignores waterways and drainage can become a risk to both its residents and the wider city.

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration has completed a vast portfolio of public infrastructure works, with approximately 70 percent of those finished developments originating from legacy contracts that had been abandoned for 15 to 16 years. This massive structural revival aligns directly with executive mandates issued by President Bola Tinubu, which stipulate that all viable, publicly funded government projects must be completed to prevent asset waste. Speaking during a comprehensive monthly media interaction in Abuja, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike explained that the current administration purposefully prioritized completing these historical works before deploying resources into entirely fresh capital construction.

According to data released during the briefing, roughly 60 percent of all physical engineering assets delivered over the last three years were originally awarded over a decade ago but left completely dormant by previous regimes. The administration opted for a dual development model, concurrently managing legacy property handovers while initiating modern road expansions across outlying satellite communities. This aggressive urban construction approach aims to systematically decongest central traffic corridors, improve cross-regional connectivity, and open up newly plotted districts for private residential real estate and commercial investment.

The accelerated pace of this regional transformation was heavily attributed to structural fiscal adjustments approved by the Presidency, specifically the extraction of the capital territory’s budget from the centralized Treasury Single Account framework. This financial autonomy ensures that contractors receive payments reliably without prolonged administrative delays, drastically raising investor confidence in the territory’s expanding infrastructure pipeline. Alongside these structural successes, the administration has introduced strict fiscal discipline, which includes reversing the local budget balance to heavily favor capital investments while actively blocking systemic avenues previously used for the diversion of public funds.

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that the FCT Administration will embark on a 31-day project commissioning programme across Abuja to commemorate President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

Speaking during a political luncheon in Port Harcourt, Wike described the month-long exercise as an unprecedented commissioning marathon designed to showcase major infrastructure projects, including road networks, public utilities and urban renewal initiatives transforming the nation’s capital.

According to the minister, the extensive commissioning schedule reflects the level of development achieved under the current administration and demonstrates the impact of President Tinubu’s support for the FCT.

“This third year of Mr. President alone, we are taking 31 days for commissioning of projects in Abuja. I’m not talking about boreholes. I challenge anybody to contradict this,” Wike stated.

Abuja Infrastructure Projects to Take Centre Stage

Wike said the commissioning programme would feature key infrastructure projects executed by the FCT Administration, highlighting improvements in transportation, public services and urban development.

He noted that the projects represent some of the most significant investments undertaken in Abuja in recent years and are aimed at improving the quality of life for residents while boosting economic activities in the capital city.

The minister also defended the administration’s record, insisting that the scale and quality of ongoing projects speak for themselves despite criticism from political opponents.

Wike Extends Olive Branch to Rivers Political Opponents

Beyond discussing infrastructure development, Wike adopted a conciliatory tone regarding political tensions in Rivers State, calling on former allies and opponents to reconcile and work together.

“I use this opportunity today to announce that I have forgiven everybody. I want you to come back home sincerely. We have played politics, we have abused ourselves, this is the right time for you to come back,” he said.

The former Rivers State governor emphasized the need for unity while expressing readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders interested in the progress of the state.

Warns Against External Interference in Rivers Politics

Despite extending an olive branch, Wike cautioned against what he described as external interference in Rivers State politics, maintaining confidence in his political structure.

He described his political alliance as a strong “rainbow coalition” capable of maintaining its influence in the state.

“Anybody from another state who is trying to destroy Rivers State, the person will have problems. You put your hand, you get fire,” he warned.

The minister also expressed confidence in the future of his political camp, stating that it remains well-positioned for upcoming political contests.

Commitment to Development

Wike reiterated that the FCT Administration remains focused on delivering impactful projects that will improve infrastructure, expand economic opportunities and support national development.

He assured residents that the upcoming commissioning programme would provide tangible evidence of the administration’s efforts to transform Abuja through strategic investments in critical infrastructure.

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT Administration’s policy of allocating land to diplomatic personnel and investors, insisting the process follows established government procedures aimed at promoting development and investment.

Wike spoke on Thursday in Abuja while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory.

The minister criticised individuals and organisations questioning the policy, accusing some of hypocrisy and selective criticism despite previously benefiting from similar land allocations.

According to him, land allocation remains a legitimate government tool for encouraging urban development and economic growth within the capital city.

“When you live in a glass house, don’t throw stones. Some of those criticising the policy were also allocated land, and they are not among the poor,” Wike said.

He also took a swipe at media organisations opposing the policy, arguing that media businesses operate commercially and should not pretend otherwise.

The minister noted that media houses generate income through advertisements, sponsored coverage, and commercial news content to sustain their operations.

Wike dismissed claims that the FCT Administration was selling public land, clarifying that allocations are granted under clearly defined investment and development conditions.

“The FCT does not sell land; it allocates land based on specific agreements and development conditions,” he stated.

He explained that all beneficiaries, including diplomats, are required to pay statutory processing fees before obtaining Certificates of Occupancy.

The minister further revealed that many of the disputed land allocations being criticised were originally approved by previous administrations.

According to him, governance is a continuous process and cannot be separated from decisions made by former officials.

“Government is continuous. You cannot pretend that previous allocations did not happen simply because leadership has changed,” he said.

Wike also warned that all allocated lands must be developed according to agreed timelines and conditions or risk revocation by the government.

He cited the case of Jabi Lake, where land allocated decades ago reportedly remained undeveloped before being reclaimed and reassigned to new investors.

The minister rejected arguments that prime lands should be reserved only for low-income residents, stressing that strategic locations require significant investment to transform them into world-class economic and tourism hubs.

“Prime locations require serious investment and proper development. Emotional arguments will not build modern cities,” he added.

Wike maintained that his administration would continue to prioritise practical development policies and infrastructural growth over populist sentiments.

“I will always stand by the truth. What matters is development and results, not public applause,” he said.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, , has ordered the demolition of buildings illegally constructed on land originally allocated to foreign embassies in the diplomatic zone of Katampe Extension in Abuja.

Wike issued the directive on Friday while addressing journalists during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across the .

Minister Condemns Land Invasion

According to the minister, the land was officially allocated in March 2008 to several diplomatic missions for residential purposes but was later taken over by a private developer who began construction without approval from the (FCDA).

Wike described the development as illegal and vowed that the structures would be removed.

“We cannot allow this kind of land invasion to continue. Somebody just came here, took the land and started developing it without approval,” he said.

Embassies Affected

The minister listed several diplomatic missions whose allocated plots were affected by the illegal development. These include embassies of:

• Thailand
• Bulgaria
• Syria
• Somalia
• Serbia and Montenegro
• Japan
• Austria
• Switzerland
• Senegal

A portion of the land was also reserved for the for a power station project.

Arrest Made Over Illegal Development

Wike disclosed that the suspected developer responsible for the project has been arrested and will soon face prosecution.

According to him, law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the case and legal proceedings will begin shortly.

“The man has been arrested and he will be charged in court. The police are already handling the investigation,” he said.

Infrastructure Projects Near Completion

During the inspection, the minister visited several ongoing infrastructure projects, including road projects connecting Wuse to the Central Area and the Tungan-Madaki road near the airport corridor.

He expressed optimism that many of the projects would be completed ahead of the third anniversary of the administration of .

Wike reiterated that the FCT Administration would continue to enforce development regulations to protect government land and ensure proper urban planning in the capital city.

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has released four telephone numbers for residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to report cases of uncleared refuse across Abuja.

The move is part of efforts to tackle the growing waste management challenge in the territory and ensure that sanitation contractors carry out their duties promptly and effectively.

Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, urged residents to actively participate in monitoring sanitation activities by submitting photographic and video evidence of uncleared refuse.

Olayinka explained that such reports should be sent via WhatsApp, with clear details of the location provided to enable the authorities identify the responsible waste management contractors.

He said the initiative is aimed at strengthening accountability and improving environmental cleanliness across the FCT.

According to him, residents can report sanitation lapses using the following phone numbers: 08038643087, 07011073406, 07011255710 and 09114843425.

The FCTA reiterated its commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment and called on residents to support government efforts by promptly reporting sanitation issues.

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has urged Abuja residents to stop raising false security alarms, assuring the public that security agencies remain fully alert and prepared to protect lives and property.

FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, gave the warning after an expanded Security Council meeting convened by the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, at his Life Camp residence.

Dantawaye debunked recent rumours of attacks at Veritas University, Bwari, and Government Secondary School, Tungan Maje, describing them as panic-driven misunderstandings.

According to him, security teams swiftly investigated both locations and found no threats.

“We had two cases yesterday where residents mistook ordinary movements for bandit attacks. Within five minutes, our personnel responded and discovered the alarms were false,” he said.

The CP appealed to residents to remain calm, noting that massive deployments have been made across the Territory under the newly relaunched Operation Sweep.

He explained that four operational sectors have been created—covering Bwari, Gwagwalada, and the city centre including Karu, Mararaba, Karshi and Orozo.

Dantawaye commended the FCT Minister for providing the required logistics to strengthen security patrols and response systems.

The CP also assured residents of enhanced protection at worship centres.

“On Fridays, we will deploy officers to secure all major mosques, and on Sundays, churches will receive the same level of protection,” he said.

He further revealed that criminal hideouts—especially shanties—have been identified and will be removed, with police providing full support.

Dantawaye also warned residents to be cautious of dispatch riders, noting that two riders were recently arrested for transporting illicit drugs, including Indian hemp.

He encouraged residents to carry out their daily activities confidently, assuring that security agencies “are on top of their game.”

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Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has explained why he visited a disputed parcel of land in Gaduwa District, Abuja — a move that triggered a confrontation between him and a naval officer attached to former Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice-Admiral Awwal Gambo.

Speaking before the FCT Executive Council meeting, Wike said he acted because senior officials of the FCT Administration were allegedly assaulted on the site.

“How can I sit as minister when government directors are being attacked?” he asked, insisting his presence was necessary to address the situation.

A video circulating online showed bulldozers believed to have been deployed to stop ongoing construction being moved out of the area.
Wike accused Vice-Admiral Gambo of “impunity,” and condemned comments allegedly made by Navy Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, who reportedly referred to accompanying police officers as “bloody police.”

The minister insisted no security personnel has the right to intimidate government officials or disregard lawful processes.

He clarified that FCTA had always dealt with the military institutionally through the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, or the President when land disputes arise — not through confrontation.

Wike added that some former leaders, including ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and retired General T.Y. Danjuma, had shown humility by contacting him directly whenever land issues surfaced.

According to him, the Gambo land controversy had been exaggerated by those trying to portray him as being at odds with the military. He urged the media to report issues accurately and cautioned Nigerians against violating land-use laws.

The minister warned that individuals who convert agricultural lands into residential or commercial developments without approval would face sanctions.

“As long as I remain FCT Minister, the law will take its course. Abuja must reflect order, discipline and proper planning,” he said, vowing continuous enforcement against illegal developments and land grabbing.

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Abuja was envisioned as a model Garden City, one where green spaces formed a third of the city’s land use, preserving natural valleys, hills, and stream corridors for aesthetics, recreation, and climate resilience. The Abuja Master Plan earmarked 8,300 hectares, 33 percent of the city’s area, for open spaces and parks, backed by clear policy frameworks including the 2005 Parks Regulations and the 2019 FCT Parks Policy.

Despite this, the ongoing conversion of designated green areas, such as the Zone 6 Neighborhood Park into non-recreational uses directly violates these plans. There has been no public disclosure of the policy or report that justifies this shift, raising concerns over transparency, legality, and disregard for professional planning standards.

This reversal is already showing consequences. In Zone 6, reckless development has led to burst water pipes, blocked drainage, and potential environmental contamination. These outcomes could have been avoided had the FCT Administration respected the city’s layout and the advice of experts.

Urban planning principles promote converting development constraints like floodplains into public assets for recreation and stormwater management. Instead, current actions are undoing the very foundations that made Abuja a modern, livable capital.

Abuja’s green infrastructure is not ornamental; it is essential to public health, environmental sustainability, and the city’s identity. The FCTA must account for its actions and recommit to preserving Abuja’s original vision before more damage is done.

By: Umar Shuaibu
Source: Daily Trust

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