The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding due process in all matters relating to land administration in Abuja, saying that no institution or individual is above the law.
Addressing journalists on the recent confrontation between FCTA officials and some military personnel, Wike said government would not tolerate any attempt to undermine duly approved land allocations or obstruct lawful enforcement exercises.
He explained that the clash erupted when FCTA development control officials were allegedly assaulted while carrying out their official duties on a disputed site. He said he intervened personally after receiving reports that senior officials were attacked during the enforcement operation.
“As a Minister, I will not sit in my office and allow those working with me to be assaulted while performing their legitimate duties,” Wike said, stressing that his intervention was to restore order and ensure respect for government directives.
The Minister clarified that the land at the centre of the dispute had been properly allocated to Santos Estate Limited strictly for park and recreational purposes and not for residential construction. He added that this was not the first time government had enforced compliance on the site.
Citing a similar incident involving the Nigeria Police, Wike recalled visiting the location when buildings were being erected under a power line. The Inspector-General of Police, he noted, immediately ordered the stoppage of the construction in line with safety regulations.
Barr. Wike called on Nigerians, including security agencies, to respect the law and follow established procedures for resolving land-related grievances, adding that FCTA remained committed to fairness and accountability in managing the capital city’s development.
