FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has vowed to continue the demolition of illegal structures in Abuja despite backlash and Senate intervention. “Let heaven fall,” Wike declared, emphasizing his commitment to enforcing the law and reclaiming government lands.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his commitment to the ongoing demolition of illegal properties in Abuja, vowing that no amount of blackmail or criticism will deter his administration from enforcing the law.
Wike made the declaration on Thursday during the distribution of operational vehicles to security agencies at the FCTA Secretariat in Abuja. He addressed the growing backlash against the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)’s demolition exercise, stating unequivocally that the affected properties were illegally erected on government-owned lands, many of which pose significant security risks.
“Let me use this opportunity to tell Nigerians and residents of Abuja, we are not afraid of blackmail,” Wike said emphatically. “There are so many land grabbers. Some of us have come to put our feet down. Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now so that we won’t be fasting again to go to heaven.”
In recent months, the FCDA has ramped up its campaign against illegal structures in the Federal Capital Territory. Targeting estates, shanties, and buildings on government lands, the initiative has sparked widespread protests and public outcry. Critics argue that the demolitions are heavy-handed and disregard due process.
However, Wike insists the actions are necessary for Abuja’s development and security. “What is wrong is wrong; no amount of blackmail can stop us,” he declared. “People take government property without approval or documentation. We won’t tolerate it.”
Amid the growing controversy, the Senate has waded into the matter, directing an investigation into the demolitions. Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT, raised a motion expressing concerns over the exercise, leading to the formation of a committee to probe the developments.
While the Senate’s intervention has temporarily stalled some demolition activities, Wike remains undeterred, reiterating his administration’s commitment to reclaiming government lands from encroachers, regardless of their status or influence.
Wike, who served as Rivers State Governor before assuming his current role, has earned a reputation for his no-nonsense approach to governance. His stance on the Abuja demolitions aligns with his broader philosophy of enforcing laws without fear or favor.
“The truth is, we cannot build a functional capital city on lawlessness,” Wike argued. “This is not about who you are or what title you hold; it’s about doing what is right for Abuja’s future.”
