The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is witnessing a significant crackdown on illegal property developments.
Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, led a high-profile team to the demolition site in Sabon Lugbe, where 50 illegally constructed duplexes and bungalows were brought down.
This action is part of the FCT Administration’s ongoing efforts to recover land from land grabbers who have been developing properties without the necessary approvals.
During his visit to the site on Tuesday, Wike was accompanied by top security officials, including the Guards Brigade Commander, the Commissioner of Police for the FCT, and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The minister made it clear that security agencies must provide maximum protection for the demolition team.
He ordered them to ensure that all threats around the demolition site were removed so the team could carry out their work without interruptions.
Wike expressed his frustration at the illegal developments that had sprouted in Sabon Lugbe.
He pointed out that these properties were erected without any relevant approvals.
“Land grabbers must understand that their illegal activities will not be tolerated,” he stated emphatically.
Wike challenged the developers, asking them to present the necessary documents proving they had acquired the required approvals for their constructions.
“No one can come here, build without approval, and expect to keep their property,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration to reclaim all illegally acquired land and to uphold the integrity of the city’s planning processes.
“This is just the beginning,” Wike warned. “We will not condone any act of illegal acquisition of lands.”
The demolitions began on October 17, as the FCTA’s Department of Development Control set its sights on illegal structures across the territory.
Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, the Director of Development Control, explained that these structures were built without the approval of the appropriate authorities.
He emphasized the need for strict adherence to land acquisition procedures.
“The southwest area of Sabon Lugbe is part of Phase 5 District of the Federal Capital City,” Galadima noted.
He urged potential buyers to exercise due diligence before purchasing any property in the area to avoid falling victim to land grabbers.
“This demolition is a clear message to land grabbers: we will act decisively against any illegal developments,” he added.
The recent demolitions have raised questions about the challenges faced by the FCT Administration in managing land use in Abuja.
Over the years, Abuja has experienced rapid urbanization, leading to a surge in illegal land acquisitions and constructions.
Many land grabbers exploit loopholes in the system, taking advantage of unsuspecting buyers who may not be aware of the legal requirements for property development.
This situation has created a sense of urgency for the FCT Administration, prompting them to take stricter actions against illegal developments.
The demolitions in Sabon Lugbe have been met with mixed reactions from the public.
While some support the government’s efforts to reclaim land, others argue that it could lead to displacement for families who invested in these properties, believing them to be legitimate.
The challenges of land management in the capital are complex, requiring ongoing vigilance and enforcement by the government.
The FCTA has indicated that it will continue to monitor illegal activities in the area closely.
The administration is also working to educate the public about the legal processes involved in land acquisition and development.
Abuja’s rapid growth should not come at the cost of legal integrity and sustainable development.
Wike’s recent actions have set a precedent for accountability in land use, signaling to all stakeholders that illegal activities will not be tolerated.
