The Nigerian Senate has launched a formal investigation into the recent wave of demolitions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), an exercise that has sparked public outrage and left many residents homeless.
The Senate resolved on Thursday to summon the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to explain the reasons behind the demolitions, which have raised serious concerns about human rights and due process.
Senator Ireti Kingibe of the FCT Senatorial District sponsored the motion, expressing deep worry over the alleged illegal demolition of properties in Abuja.
“The demolitions are unjust, inhumane, and have displaced thousands of law-abiding residents,” Senator Kingibe said during the plenary.
The Senate has directed an investigative committee to look into the demolitions and report its findings within a specific timeframe.
The committee will also review the legal framework and policies guiding urban planning in the FCT to prevent further violations.
Widespread Displacement Sparks Outcry
Since his appointment as FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has aggressively pursued urban renewal projects, which include the demolition of structures he described as “illegal.”
While some applaud his efforts to restore Abuja’s original master plan, others criticize the demolitions as a heavy-handed approach that disregards the plight of the poor.
“This is not about legality; it’s about humanity,” said a displaced resident, who described losing his home and business in the exercise.
Social media platforms have been awash with videos of the demolitions, showing residents scrambling to salvage belongings from their crumbling properties.
Despite public outcry, Wike has defended the demolitions, vowing that “no illegal structure will stand, no matter the criticism.”
Senate Condemns Julius Berger for Snubbing Invitation
In a related development, the Senate has also summoned the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC for failing to honor repeated invitations regarding the Odukpani-Itu Highway project.
The highway, a key economic route connecting Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, has suffered delays despite the allocation of over ₦18 billion for its construction.
Senator Osita Ngwu moved the motion, criticizing Julius Berger for treating the Senate with contempt and neglecting accountability.
“The refusal to appear before the Senate undermines the constitutional authority of this chamber,” Ngwu said.
Lawmakers resolved to issue a warrant of arrest against the Julius Berger MD if the company fails to comply with the latest invitation.
The Senate described the delays on the Odukpani-Itu Highway as “a betrayal of public trust” and demanded urgent action to complete the project.
Constitutional Powers Invoked
Both matters have heightened tensions between the Senate and those at the center of the controversies, with lawmakers emphasizing their constitutional role in holding public and private entities accountable.
“We cannot sit idly by while citizens suffer, and institutions flout the law with impunity,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared.
The Senate’s actions come at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship and a housing crisis, amplifying the significance of its decisions.
The investigative committee’s findings on the FCT demolitions are expected to shed light on the legality and human impact of the exercise.
Similarly, the Julius Berger probe could reveal the reasons behind the delays and mismanagement plaguing one of Nigeria’s vital infrastructure projects.
A Balancing Act Between Development and Rights
Urban renewal efforts like those in Abuja are often controversial, especially in countries with significant housing deficits.
While restoring order to the FCT’s urban landscape may be necessary, critics argue that such actions should not come at the expense of vulnerable citizens.
For those affected by the demolitions, the Senate’s investigation offers a glimmer of hope that justice might be served.
“This is a welcome development,” said another resident whose property was destroyed. “I hope the Senate will hold the minister accountable.”
