Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of structures built on waterways and designated right-of-way areas across Abuja, following recent flooding in parts of the capital.
Wike gave the directive after inspecting flood-affected areas in Maitama on Tuesday, warning that no individual, regardless of status or position, would be spared. He said illegal developments had obstructed natural drainage channels and contributed significantly to the flooding.
The minister directed the Department of Development Control to begin enforcement, insisting that structures found blocking water channels must be removed. He said the action would proceed despite possible political criticism, stressing that some of the affected properties reportedly belong to high-profile individuals, including serving and former public officials.
Wike also blamed indiscriminate refuse disposal, illegal conversion of green areas, blocked drainage systems and failure to desilt waterways for worsening flooding. While acknowledging that climate change contributes to flooding globally, he maintained that government must tackle the man-made factors within its control.
He said previous administrations may have lacked the political will to enforce the Abuja Master Plan but insisted that his administration was prepared to act. Wike also rejected allegations that the current administration allocated waterways to developers, challenging critics to provide evidence of any such approvals.
The minister maintained that the FCT administration had made significant progress while acknowledging that more challenges remained to be addressed. He urged stakeholders to focus on practical solutions rather than politicising the flooding situation.
Leave a comment