Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly condemned what he described as an illegal military takeover of disputed land in Abuja, allegedly orchestrated by a former Chief of Naval Staff.
Minister's On-Site Confrontation
According to a statement released on Tuesday, November 11, by his spokesperson Lere Olayinka, Wike personally visited the contested site after receiving reports that soldiers had driven away Federal Capital Territory Administration officials who were enforcing development control directives.
The minister characterized the military intervention as "lawless and unacceptable" during his inspection of the property. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of their former position or military background, would be permitted to intimidate government authorities or obstruct legal enforcement procedures.
Development Control Officials Chased Away
Wike revealed that he had initially instructed land department and Development Control officials to monitor what he termed "illegal development and land grabbing" activities on the property. The minister stated he specifically directed them to prevent any construction after determining that the occupants lacked proper documentation.
"When this was brought to my attention, I instructed them to ensure that nothing takes place there, as there were no legal documents—no regional approval, no valid acquisition," Wike explained.
However, while Development Control officials were implementing the minister's directive, armed soldiers allegedly acting under the retired naval chief's instructions chased them away from the site.
Wike's Strong Reaction
Expressing his disappointment, Wike stated: "I was informed that the soldiers of the military had to chase them away, and I thought they were acting illegally. Today, while I was in the office, I was called again that the military had taken over the place. I had to come myself to see things. It's really unfortunate."
The minister expressed particular concern that someone who had attained such a high military position would resort to intimidation tactics rather than following proper administrative channels.
"I don't understand how somebody who attained that position cannot approach my office to say, 'Look, this is what is going on.' But simply because he's a military man, he thinks he can use that to intimidate Nigerians. I am not one of those that will succumb to blackmail or intimidation," Wike declared.
Lack of Proper Documentation
Wike further revealed that when FCTA officials demanded documentation to justify the land occupation, the military representatives failed to produce any valid papers.
"The Director of Development Control said, 'Bring the documents' they don't have them. 'Bring approval for building' they don't have it. How can we continue to allow lawlessness to prevail? What about those who don't have the military behind them? What about ordinary Nigerians?" the minister questioned.
He maintained that the FCTA would not tolerate the misuse of military power to obstruct legitimate urban regulation, stressing that the rule of law must apply equally to all citizens, regardless of their connections or former positions.
Resolution Efforts and Firm Stance
The FCT minister confirmed that he has already discussed the matter with top military leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that the situation would be resolved.
"We're not here to have a shootout with anybody or cause chaos. But I will not allow this to happen. The same way we enforce our laws in other areas is the same way it will be done here. Nobody whether a former Chief of Naval Staff or anyone else will be allowed to carry out illegal development on government land," Wike asserted.
Wike reaffirmed his commitment to restoring order and accountability in Abuja's land administration system, warning that the FCTA would continue to reclaim encroached areas regardless of the power or influence of those involved.
