Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says he will hold talks with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, following the demolition of several residential buildings in Apo Dutse District, Abuja, reportedly owned by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The buildings, which were constructed under a high-tension electricity line, were pulled down by the FCT Department of Development Control after repeated warnings and refusal to grant development approval, according to a statement issued by the Minister’s media aide, Lere Olayinka.
During an on-the-spot assessment of the demolition site on Friday, Wike expressed concern over the risks posed by the illegal structures and emphasized that the law must be upheld.
“You can see the high-tension line – and that is dangerous,” Wike said.
“The land was allocated to the Nigerian Police, but their request for development approval was denied due to the risk. Yet they went ahead with construction.”
According to Wike, the situation escalated when officers from Development Control were arrested by police personnel following the demolition of at least 11 housing units, comprising three- and four-bedroom flats.
“It’s unfortunate. The government cannot allow anyone to break the rules,” the Minister stated.
“Even if the high-tension line wasn’t there, once your application is denied, you cannot proceed as if you’re above the law.”
Wike said he is confident the IGP may not have been aware of the incident and affirmed his intention to seek clarification.
“That’s why I have to take this matter up with the IGP. We must enforce planning regulations regardless of who is involved,” he added.
