Abuja flood: Demolition will reach every part of FCT – Wike declares
FCT Minister Expands Demolition of Illegal Structures to Combat Flooding
Abuja — Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), announced on Wednesday that efforts to demolish illegal structures obstructing drainage channels will be extended to all districts within the territory. This initiative follows an inspection of major infrastructure projects in the FCT.
During a press briefing, Wike underscored the government’s commitment to enforcing urban and environmental regulations. “We just started somewhere. After that, we will move to another area. We are not going to end where we started yesterday. We are very serious, and I can tell you that we are not going back. It doesn’t matter who is affected,” he stated.
In response to concerns about the procedural integrity of the demolitions, Wike emphasized the dangers of blocking natural waterways, citing public safety risks associated with flooding. “You went to block a water channel, is that due process? I’m the one following due process to make sure the right thing is being done,” he said, asserting that the removal of unauthorized structures would facilitate the proper flow of water.
Additionally, Wike declared a city-wide ban on the unauthorized conversion of public recreational spaces and parks, including areas near the Millennium Park, into commercial vehicle dealerships and parking lots. This move aims to address flooding issues that have been affecting parts of the Federal Capital City.
The minister condemned the trend of encroaching on green spaces, announcing the formation of a dedicated task force to enforce compliance and ensure that unauthorized auto dealerships are removed from these areas. “You can imagine, everywhere you have green areas, you have carports now,” Wike remarked.
In a related development, FCT Head of Service Nancy Sabanti Nathan has convened key officials, including directors responsible for Parks and Recreation, Environmental Protection, Traffic Management, and Urban and Regional Planning, to investigate illegal approvals granted to car dealers.
Wike also provided updates on various infrastructure projects, including the extension of a road from Tungan Madaki community near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to Zuba, as well as ongoing road improvements in the vicinity of Nile University and Baze University. He expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of the work underway.
