The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate demolition of buildings constructed on designated waterways across Abuja, following recent flooding in parts of the capital.
Wike issued the order on Tuesday after inspecting flood-affected areas, including Maitama and other parts of the FCT. He said the demolition exercise would begin immediately and continue through Saturday.
The minister stressed that the enforcement would apply to everyone, regardless of political connections, wealth or the status of property owners.
Wike: No One Will Be Spared
Wike said investigations showed that several properties had been built on waterways reserved in the Abuja Master Plan for the proper movement of stormwater.
He warned that buildings obstructing these channels would be removed, including properties belonging to prominent Nigerians.
According to him, recent flooding has highlighted the consequences of ignoring Abuja’s planning regulations and allowing structures to block natural and designated water channels.
The minister said the government would not allow political considerations to prevent enforcement of development laws.
Blocked Drainage and Illegal Structures Worsening Flooding
Wike identified several factors contributing to flooding in Abuja, including:
Buildings constructed on waterways
Blocked drainage channels
Indiscriminate dumping of waste
Poor maintenance of drainage systems
Failure to regularly desilt waterways
Heavy rainfall linked to changing weather patterns
He said some drainage channels originally provided under the Abuja Master Plan had been deliberately obstructed by property developments.
Wike noted that many of the affected structures were owned by wealthy individuals and had remained in place for several years.
Demolition to Continue Despite Political Activities
The FCT minister said the demolition exercise would not be suspended because of the political season or concerns about criticism.
He maintained that enforcing planning regulations was necessary to protect lives and property.
Wike also directed the FCT Development Control Department to begin enforcement without delay.
He said the administration had the political will to remove illegal structures, regardless of how long they had existed.
FCT Authorities Directed to Desilt Drainages
Beyond demolishing structures on waterways, Wike instructed relevant FCT agencies to immediately commence the desilting of drainage channels identified as contributing to flooding.
He also appealed to residents, traders and businesses to stop disposing of refuse inside drainage systems.
According to him, blocked drains prevent water from flowing freely and can significantly increase the severity of flooding during heavy rainfall.
Climate Change Also Contributing to Abuja Flooding
While acknowledging that climate change and unusually heavy rainfall are contributing to flooding, Wike said human activities remain an important part of the problem.
He stressed that Abuja’s flooding challenges cannot be blamed entirely on natural weather conditions.
The minister said the FCT Administration would continue protecting designated green areas and enforcing the city’s planning regulations.
He urged residents to cooperate with authorities as the government intensifies efforts to reduce flooding and improve the capital’s drainage infrastructure.