The newly appointed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Wike, delivered both warnings and promises during his inaugural day on Monday, August 21, 2023. Addressing journalists, he issued a stern warning that any houses constructed in unauthorized locations, regardless of ownership, would be demolished. He emphasized that those responsible for distorting Abuja’s master plan and failing to manage waste properly would face consequences.
Wike asserted, “If you have built in prohibited areas, your property will be brought down. Whether you hold a ministerial position or serve as an ambassador, unauthorized development will not be spared.”
In addition to admonishing unauthorized construction, the former Governor of Rivers State made it clear that restaurants built on green areas within the FCT would face demolition. He insisted on restoring the city’s green spaces, stressing their significance. Wike stated, “We will not tolerate the conversion of green areas and parks into restaurants. Those who have taken over these spaces must return them. Green areas are vital, and any encroachment will not be allowed.”
Addressing the issue of land racketeering and landowners who neglect to develop their properties, Wike announced his intention to take decisive action. He indicated that he would revoke the properties of those who exploit lands for speculative purposes, reallocating them to individuals willing to develop them promptly. He stated, “The era of land racketeering is over. Those who misuse land allocations for speculation will lose their holdings. We will reclaim such properties and grant them to individuals committed to development.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier encouraged Wike and the 44 other ministers sworn in on the same day to serve Nigeria with integrity.
