Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, visited a disputed parcel of land in Abuja after reports emerged that soldiers had taken over the site on the instruction of a former Chief of Naval Staff. The incident reportedly occurred after officials from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) were forced out of the area while trying to halt ongoing construction.
Wike, who arrived at the scene to verify the situation, described the development as unlawful and warned that no individual, regardless of rank or former position, would be allowed to use military power to obstruct enforcement of the law. He said the land in question had no valid ownership documents, no development approval, and no record of legal acquisition.
According to reports, officers from the Department of Development Control had earlier visited the site to stop construction activities in line with Wike’s directive, but they were chased away by armed soldiers acting on the orders of the retired naval officer. The minister expressed disappointment that someone who once held a high military position would resort to using force rather than follow the right administrative procedures.
Wike stated that when FCTA officials demanded evidence of ownership or building approval from those occupying the land, none was provided. He questioned why individuals with military connections should be allowed to violate the law while ordinary Nigerians are expected to comply with laid-down regulations.
He explained that he had spoken with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff about the situation, and they assured him that the matter would be resolved peacefully. However, he maintained that the FCT Administration would not allow any illegal development to continue, regardless of who was involved.
The minister reaffirmed that the rule of law must be upheld in the Federal Capital Territory and vowed that government land would be protected from unlawful acquisition. He stressed that no one, including a former Chief of Naval Staff or any influential figure, would be permitted to intimidate officials or disrupt the enforcement of development control policies.
Wike concluded that the FCTA would continue to recover encroached lands across Abuja and ensure that only approved developments proceed in accordance with urban planning regulations.