The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that any unauthorized buildings constructed on green spaces in Abuja will be demolished without compensation,leadership reports.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike underscored that constructing properties without proper approval is unacceptable. He expressed frustration with illegal encroachments on public lands and emphasized his commitment to enforce regulations impartially.
“I recently visited Maitama with the Director of Land and Development Control. I don’t just stay in my office; I go out to observe the situation. During my visit, I found that green areas had nearly vanished—no trees, nothing left,” he explained.
“If anyone builds on green areas without necessary approvals, those structures will certainly be demolished without compensation. Why should I compensate someone for encroaching on public land?” he asked.
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Wike clarified that only the FCT Minister has the authority to grant building approvals. “The only person who can give you approval is the minister. If you choose to deal with others, that’s not my concern,” he said, noting that many so-called approvals are actually unauthorized documents issued by the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
He recounted instances where former officials unlawfully allocated land, thereby bypassing the authority of the FCT Minister.
“Decisions made without proper authority are illegal. We need to end the rush to build without understanding the legal requirements. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” he asserted.
He also warned civil servants against overstepping their powers, stressing that only the FCT Minister can sign Certificates of Occupancy (C of O). “Civil servants cannot sign on behalf of the minister or governor, as this causes serious complications,” he added, condemning any actions that undermine legal procedures.
Wike cited a Supreme Court ruling that all land within the FCT falls under federal authority, advising those who have encroached on government lands to correct their status rather than defy the law.
Reaffirming his commitment to upholding regulations, Wike concluded, “We will not allow people to occupy land that doesn’t belong to them. Those who do so will face consequences.”
