Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has declared that any unauthorised buildings erected on green areas in the city will be demolished without compensation.
Wike made this announcement during a media briefing with selected journalists in Abuja yesterday, asserting that it is unacceptable for individuals to construct properties without proper approval.
He expressed frustration over the illegal encroachments and emphasised his commitment to action.
“I was in Maitama recently with the Director of Land and Development Control. I do not simply sit in my office; I go out to see what’s happening. Upon my visit to Maitama, I discovered that our green areas had been nearly depleted. There were no trees, nothing left.
“If anyone builds on a green area without the necessary approval, then too bad. Those structures will certainly be brought down, and yes, they will be demolished without compensation. Why should I compensate someone for encroaching on public land?” he said.
The Minister clarified that he alone has the authority to grant construction approvals. “The only person who can give you that approval is the minister. If you engage in business with someone else, that’s not my concern,” he added.
Wike explained the frequent confusion surrounding land allocations, stating that many documents presented as valid approvals need to be more representative of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
He recounted instances where former officials unlawfully allocated land, undermining the minister’s authority.
“Everything is illegal when decisions are made without proper authority. We must stop the rush to build without understanding the legal framework. Ignorance of the law is no excuse,” he said.
He also cautioned against civil servants acting beyond their powers, stressing that only the FCT Minister can sign Certificates of Occupancy (CofO).
“It is not within a civil servant’s authority to sign on behalf of the minister or the governor. Such actions lead to significant complications,” he stated, condemning practices that undermine established legal processes.
He referenced the Supreme Court’s decision affirming that all land within the FCT falls under its authority, urging individuals who have encroached upon government land to recognise their mistakes and seek to regularise their statuses rather than continue in defiance.
Wike reiterated his determination to uphold the law and maintain the integrity of Abuja’s green spaces. “We cannot allow people to occupy land that doesn’t belong to them. Those who attempt to do so will face the consequences.”
