The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday visited Plot 1946 in the Gaduwa District of Abuja following reports that soldiers had occupied the disputed land allegedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd).During the unannounced visit, Wike expressed displeasure that officials from the FCT Department of Development Control were reportedly chased away from the site by armed soldiers while attempting to enforce a stop-work order issued by his office. The soldiers were said to have blocked access to the property with a truck, preventing the minister and his team from entering.
Wike explained that the matter came to his attention after it was discovered that the developers had no valid documents or official approval for the land. “The land departments and Development Control have been directed to monitor illegal developments and land grabbing activities in the FCT,” he said. “When this issue was brought to my notice, I ordered that all work on the plot be halted since there were no legal documents or planning approvals. Unfortunately, I was informed that soldiers drove our officials away.”
The minister expressed surprise that soldiers allegedly acting on the former Naval Chief’s instructions had taken over the land. “I find it shocking that someone who once held such a high position would not approach the FCT Minister to clarify his claim but would rather deploy soldiers to intimidate people. I will not yield to blackmail or threats,” Wike stated.
He added that when Development Control officers requested proof of ownership and building approval, none was presented. “How can we allow lawlessness to continue in this country? What about those who do not have soldiers or security forces to defend them?” he asked.
Wike condemned the use of security operatives to obstruct lawful government actions, stressing that such conduct would not be tolerated under his leadership.He further disclosed that he had already spoken with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that the situation would be handled amicably. “We are not here to create confrontation or chaos, but I will not permit illegality to stand.
The same enforcement measures applied in other parts of Abuja will be applied here. No one, not even a former Chief of Naval Staff, is above the law,” Wike declared.In recent months, the FCT Administration has intensified its campaign against land racketeering and unauthorized developments across the territory, with several high-profile structures already demolished for violating planning regulations.
Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/
