Wike Vows To Stop Illegal Abuja Land Encroachment Despite Military Involvement And Retired Naval Chief Pressure

 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has strongly condemned the alleged illegal occupation of disputed land in Abuja by military personnel, reportedly acting on the instructions of a former Chief of Naval Staff. Describing the incident as lawless and unacceptable, Wike emphasized that no individual, regardless of former status, would be allowed to intimidate government authorities or obstruct enforcement of urban development laws.

The FCT Minister personally visited the site on Tuesday after receiving reports that soldiers had driven away officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) tasked with monitoring land development. Wike reiterated that land departments and the Department of Development Control hold the legal mandate to prevent illegal land acquisition and unauthorized construction activities. He made it clear that he had issued directives to halt any activity on the disputed land due to the absence of legal documents, regional approval, or valid acquisition records.

According to Wike, while FCTA officials were present to enforce the directive, they were chased away by armed soldiers allegedly acting under the orders of a retired senior military officer. The minister expressed disbelief that a person who previously held such a top military position could resort to intimidation rather than following proper legal procedures. He questioned how anyone who reached such a position could bypass lawful channels, highlighting that reliance on military influence to intimidate civilians is unacceptable.

Wike stressed that enforcement of development control regulations applies equally to everyone, regardless of rank or background. He recounted that FCTA officials had requested documents justifying the occupation of the land, but none were produced. “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 ordinary Nigerians who lack military backing?” he asked.

The minister made it clear that the FCTA would not tolerate the misuse of military power to obstruct legitimate governance and urban regulation. Wike confirmed that he had communicated with both the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that the matter would be resolved without any confrontation or disruption of public order. He maintained, however, that law enforcement would continue and illegal occupation would not be allowed to persist.

Highlighting his commitment to restoring accountability and proper governance in Abuja’s land administration, Wike warned that the FCTA would continue to reclaim encroached government land, regardless of the influence or past status of those involved. He noted that enforcement of urban planning and land laws must be consistent and fair to all citizens, drawing a clear line against privilege-based impunity.

Officials within the FCTA and the Department of Development Control have been tasked to remain vigilant in monitoring government land and ensuring that unauthorized activities are halted immediately. Wike’s intervention signals a firm stance against illegal land acquisition in the Federal Capital Territory and underscores the principle that no former or current military official is above the law.

The incident has sparked public debate about the balance between military influence and civil governance, emphasizing the need for transparent processes in land management and urban development. Wike’s decisive response indicates a renewed effort to maintain order, protect public land, and enforce regulations equitably in Abuja, reinforcing the authority of the FCTA over land matters in the territory.

The FCT Minister concluded that the administration would not yield to threats or intimidation, and that legal enforcement will continue until all government land is secured from encroachment, sending a strong message that law and order are paramount in the Federal Capital Territory.