The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has doubled down on his demolition campaign, stating that properties illegally built on government lands will continue to be removed despite public criticism.
Wike made the statement during a ceremony to distribute operational vehicles to security agencies at the FCTA Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday.
He emphasized that his actions were aimed at curbing land grabbing and ensuring adherence to urban planning laws in the FCT.
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“We are not afraid of blackmail. What is wrong is wrong, and no amount of pressure will deter us from recovering government lands,” Wike declared.
The minister’s stance comes amid allegations from a construction company, Paullosa Nigeria Limited, whose estate in Lifecamp is facing demolition.
The company claims to have paid N10 million for a right of occupancy, which has not been issued, yet it received a demolition notice.
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In response, Wike dismissed the accusations, asserting that illegal structures on government lands pose security risks. He criticized past administrations for inaction and vowed to take a firm stance.
“You cannot expect this government to ignore illegalities just because the previous one did. If you are a squatter, you will face the consequences,” Wike said, adding that being from Rivers State does not preclude individuals from owning land in Abuja.
Wike also warned defaulters of ground rents in the FCT to clear their debts or face revocation of their titles.
“For those who think we are joking about ground rents, your time is up. If you don’t pay, I will revoke your title and reallocate the land to those who will pay,” he warned.
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On the issue of security, Wike urged security agencies to utilize the 50 newly distributed vehicles effectively to ensure the safety of lives and property during the Yuletide season.
The vehicles were distributed as follows: 25 to the FCT Police Command, five each to the Department of State Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, and Nigerian Army Guards Brigade; two each to the Abuja Naval Unit and Nigeria Air Force Camp Abuja; and six to FCT Secretariats, Departments, and Agencies.
Wike reaffirmed his commitment to a safer and better-regulated FCT, despite ongoing public criticism.