Wike Cracks Down on Illegal Structures After Jikwoyi Building Collapse

By Urube Peter, Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has directed the arrest of the owner of a building that collapsed on Good Friday, April 3, in the Jikwoyi area of the FCT, and also ordered the revocation of the land.

Speaking to journalists during an on-the-spot assessment of the site, Wike revealed that the developer was constructing a two-storey hotel without the necessary approval, despite having received stop-work notices from officials of the Development Control Department.
He warned that any structure without proper approval would be demolished, adding that the owner of the collapsed building would be apprehended and prosecuted.
The Minister further disclosed that the revoked land would be converted for community use, with residents to be consulted in deciding a suitable project for public benefit.
Wike emphasized the importance of complying with building regulations, noting that approvals are essential to ensure adherence to construction standards and the use of quality materials.
He also instructed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement actions, including the demolition of illegal structures, in order to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Reiterating his stance, Wike urged developers to always obtain approval from Development Control before commencing any project, and encouraged the public to report unauthorized constructions to the authorities for prompt action.
The Minister reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that due process must be followed to avoid penalties.