Wike orders developer’s arrest, land forfeiture following Abuja building collapse

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By Omeiza Ajayi

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ABUJA: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate arrest of the developer and the permanent seizure of the land where a multi-story hotel structure collapsed last Friday in the Jikwoyi area of Abuja

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During an on-the-spot assessment of the site on Monday, the minister revealed that the construction was entirely unauthorized and had been carried out in defiance of regulatory authorities.

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He explained that the FCT Department of Development Control had previously flagged the site, yet the developer persisted with the project.

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“Despite the lack of formal approval, the company proceeded with construction, leading to the eventual structural failure. There was no approval for the construction of this building,” the Minister stated during the site visit.

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He added that the “Development Control had issued stop work notices, but the company ignored the notices and continued regardless.”

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While the incident resulted in injuries without fatalities, the minister noted that the victims were receiving medical attention and warned that the situation could have been far more tragic.

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Consequently, he announced that the FCT Administration would reclaim the plot for public use and ensure that those behind the illegal construction are prosecuted.

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He said the administration plans to consult the local community to decide on a suitable public-purpose project for the reclaimed site.
Wike underscored the importance of following building regulations, noting that the approval process is vital for monitoring construction standards and material quality to prevent such disasters.

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The minister also mandated relevant agencies to escalate enforcement, including the demolition of unapproved structures across the territory.

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“It is important that we act decisively. Where there is a clear violation, the law must take its course,” the minister said.

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