The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said he will meet with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the demolition of illegal duplexes built under a high-tension power line in the Apo Dutse District of Abuja.
According to a statement by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike made the remark during an on-the-spot assessment of the demolished buildings on Friday.
The minister explained that the structures, reportedly belonging to the Nigeria Police Force, were constructed despite multiple warnings and the denial of development approval by the FCT Department of Development Control.
On Thursday, officials of the department demolished at least eleven units of three- and four-bedroom flats in the area, an operation that reportedly led to the arrest of some department staff by police officers.
Reacting to the development, Wike expressed disappointment that the police could disregard official warnings and proceed with illegal construction on a high-risk site.
“Well, it’s unfortunate. Yesterday, I got a call from Development Control that they had to come here to stop some buildings from going on,” he said.
“You can see the high-tension line, and that is dangerous. The land was given to the Nigerian Police, and they applied for approval, but Development Control refused because of the high-tension risk.
“They refused to stop, and Development Control had to act. Unfortunately, our officers were arrested by the Nigerian Police, and that’s why I have to take this matter up with the IGP. I’m sure he may not be aware, but we cannot allow this.”
Wike insisted that the FCT Administration would not tolerate violations of building regulations, regardless of who was involved.
“The government cannot allow anyone to break the rules. Look at the high-tension line. How would anybody take such a risk? Even if there was no high-tension line, once you are denied approval, you cannot go ahead as if you are above the law,” the minister stated.
What You Should Know
Minister Nyesom Wike has reaffirmed his stance on enforcing urban planning laws in the FCT, even when government institutions are involved.
The demolished buildings, reportedly owned by the police, were constructed under a high-tension line—a clear safety violation. His planned meeting with IGP Egbetokun underscores the seriousness of the FCTA’s commitment to maintaining regulatory order in Abuja’s development.
