The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to stop all illegal constructions in Abuja, regardless of the individuals or institutions involved.
His remarks followed a tense confrontation on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, when Nigerian Navy personnel barred him and his inspection team from accessing a site where unauthorized development was taking place in the Gaduwa District along the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way corridor.
Wike, who visited the area with senior officials including the Director of Development Control, Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, said the FCT Administration had earlier halted work on the site after confirming that the developer—allegedly a former Chief of Naval Staff—lacked title documents and Development Control approval.
According to the Minister, naval officers on the site claimed they were acting on “orders from above,” and stopped FCTA officials from enforcing compliance. Wike described the action as “lawlessness” and an unacceptable attempt to use military influence to obstruct regulation.
“The same way we enforce the law everywhere else is how we will enforce it here,” Wike said after the confrontation. “He will not continue this illegal development simply because he is a former Chief of Naval Staff. I will not allow that.”
Wike added that he personally visited the location after receiving reports that military personnel had taken over the site and dispersed FCTA enforcement officers. He questioned why a former service chief would resort to military protection instead of engaging the FCT Administration through lawful channels.
“You don’t have title documents; you don’t have building approval. How can we allow this level of lawlessness to continue? What happens to ordinary Nigerians who don’t have military backing?” he asked.
The Minister also disclosed that he has contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, both of whom have assured him they will act to address the situation.
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