Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday stormed Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, Abuja, following reports that soldiers had taken over the disputed parcel of land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd).
During the unscheduled visit, Wike expressed anger that officials from the FCT Department of Development Control were chased away from the site by armed soldiers while attempting to enforce a stop-work order earlier issued by his office.
The soldiers reportedly blocked entry into the plot with a truck and physically prevented the minister from accessing the area.
Hon Wike said the incident came to his attention after FCT authorities discovered that the developers had no valid documents or legal approval for the property.
He explained that the land departments and Development Control have been mandated to monitor illegal developments and land grabbing in the FCT. When the matter was brought to his attention, he directed that no work should continue on the plot since there were no legal documents or urban regional approvals.
According to the minister, he was surprised to learn that soldiers allegedly acting on the instructions of the former Naval Chief had taken over the property. He stated that it was unacceptable for anyone, especially a former high-ranking officer, to use soldiers to intimidate officials rather than engage with the FCT Minister through proper channels.
When Development Control officials demanded the necessary land documents and building approvals, none were produced.
Hon Wike questioned why lawlessness should be allowed to prevail, noting that many Nigerians do not have the means to use security forces to defend illegal actions.
The Minister condemned any attempt to use security operatives to frustrate legitimate government enforcement actions, stressing that such behaviour would not be tolerated under his administration.
He disclosed that he had already spoken with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that the matter would be resolved amicably.
Hon Wike emphasised that his visit was not for confrontation but to uphold the rule of law, insisting that no one, not even a former Chief of Naval Staff, is above the law.
The FCT Administration has recently intensified efforts to curb land racketeering and illegal developments across the territory, with several high-profile properties already demolished for noncompliance with planning regulations.
Soldiers did not assault Wike, it’s wike that abused and insulted a commissioned officer in duty. Stop spreading false information. We have it on videos everywhere, when wike insulted and called him A FOOL, WHY twist it